Fluid Components Engineer

About the role

You will architect and own the design, analysis, and qualification of critical fluid systems components that enable missile defense mission success. This role demands a relentless focus on reliability, safety, and performance under the most extreme operational conditions. You will act as the technical authority for fluid components, driving decisions from concept through production release. Collaboration is central to your work, as you will elevate the capabilities of your cross-functional teammates through clear communication and shared knowledge. You are expected to identify root causes of complex problems and implement durable solutions that prevent recurrence. Your work will directly contribute to the deployment of defensive systems that are lower cost, higher performing, and more broadly distributed. You will champion best practices in engineering and testing to ensure every component meets the highest standards of quality. This position is for a self-motivated individual who thrives on solving difficult, high-stakes engineering challenges.

Key facts

What you'll do

Perform detailed engineering analysis on fluid systems components, including stress, thermal, and fluid dynamics to verify performance under extreme conditions.

Lead the development of rigorous test procedures and validation protocols that prove components meet stringent reliability and safety requirements.

Design and modify fluid system schematics, selecting optimal components and materials for mission-specific environmental and operational demands.

Execute comprehensive testing campaigns, collecting and interpreting data to verify that prototypes meet all predefined technical specifications.

Troubleshoot anomalies during development and qualification testing, diagnosing issues and directing corrective actions to achieve successful outcomes.

Collaborate with manufacturing teams to refine production processes, ensuring designs are both high-performing and manufacturable at scale.

Support the creation of technical documentation and engineering drawings that clearly define requirements and acceptance criteria for components.

Partner with systems engineers to ensure fluid components seamlessly integrate into larger missile defense architectures and launch systems.

Drive the qualification and certification of components, maintaining traceability and compliance with rigorous defense standards.

Implement continuous improvement initiatives, leveraging test data and feedback to enhance component durability and operational certainty.

Champion the use of modern analysis tools and simulation methods to reduce risk and accelerate the development timeline.

Lead root cause failure analysis investigations, ensuring that findings are communicated and implemented to prevent future issues.

Manage component-level risks and issues, escalating as necessary while maintaining clear communication with project stakeholders.

Advocate for quality and reliability principles throughout the component lifecycle, from initial design to final fielded product.

Requirements

Demonstrate a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related technical field.

Possess a minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in aerospace, defense, or missile defense systems development.

Hold active U.S. citizenship, which is mandatory for obtaining the required security clearance to access classified defense information.

Demonstrate a deep understanding of fluid power systems, including hydraulics, pneumatics, and associated control methodologies.

Show proficiency in engineering analysis tools such as finite element analysis and system simulation software.

Have a proven track record of managing projects from initial concept through production qualification and delivery.

Exhibit strong written and verbal communication skills, capable of conveying complex technical information to diverse audiences.

Commit to adhering to strict safety protocols and quality standards in a high-risk, high-precision engineering environment.

Nice to have

Experience with containerized or rapidly deployable defense systems is highly valued.

Familiarity with flight testing environments and the unique challenges of test campaign execution.

Knowledge of defense acquisition frameworks and compliance standards relevant to missile defense programs.

Practical notes

This is a full-time position based in Long Beach, California.

U.S. citizenship is required due to the sensitive nature of defense work and the necessity for a government security clearance.

Candidates must be able to pass a background investigation.

The role may require travel to test sites or supplier locations as needed for program execution.