Senior Propulsion Engineer, Engine Systems & Test

About the role

This position involves managing the full lifecycle of propulsion hardware for the Terran R vehicle, from initial design through flight qualification. You will drive engine system architecture, define operational concepts, and negotiate technical requirements to optimize vehicle performance. The role requires balancing trade studies across performance, reliability, and manufacturability to meet demanding program schedules. You will act as the technical authority for propulsion system decisions within cross-functional teams. The position demands rigorous analytical thinking to de-risk complex propulsion challenges before hardware fabrication begins. You will translate high-level mission objectives into detailed test plans and component specifications. Success in this role depends on your ability to communicate technical strategy to both engineers and executive stakeholders.

Key facts

Location: USA

Engagement: Full-time

Salary: $132,000 to $198,000 USD

Equity, PTO, sick leave, parental leave, and a learning stipend are included in the total compensation package.

What you'll do

• Lead engine system trades and manage complex interface requirements between propulsion and vehicle structures.
• Facilitate coordination between technical teams while providing deep individual engineering analysis on subsystem interactions.
• Support engine testing, simulation, and tool development to validate performance predictions and diagnose anomalies.
• Contribute to future engine iterations, including thrust upgrades and new cycle designs that enhance efficiency and reliability.
• Own project timelines and resolve problems with minimal supervision, ensuring critical path tasks are completed on schedule.
• Define operational concepts for engine start, shutdown, and transient modes to ensure safe and repeatable mission profiles.
• Negotiate technical requirements with suppliers and internal stakeholders to balance cost, risk, and performance objectives.
• Develop test procedures and acceptance criteria that verify hardware compliance with system-level requirements.
• Analyze test data to identify root causes of failures and drive corrective actions that improve design maturity.
• Mentor junior engineers by providing technical guidance and fostering a culture of rigorous engineering practices.

Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor degree in a STEM field such as aerospace, mechanical, or chemical engineering.
• Possess a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in complex system development or testing within the aerospace industry.
• Demonstrate proficiency in fluid mechanics and thermodynamics principles applied to high-speed flows and thermal systems.
• Have practical experience with liquid-propellant rocket engines, including performance analysis and component-level testing.
• Show a proven ability to own projects end-to end and solve problems independently with minimal supervision.
• Exhibit strong written and verbal communication skills to convey technical concepts to multidisciplinary audiences.
• Commitment to maintaining a high standard of safety and quality in all engineering deliverables and test activities.
• Willingness to comply with company policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements governing aerospace operations.

Nice to have

• Experience with fluid components like valves, pumps, and instrumentation that directly impact system performance.
• Familiarity with engine subsystems including turbomachinery, combustion devices, and thermal protection systems.
• Prior involvement in engine test campaigns that required rapid iteration based on test data feedback.
• Knowledge of industry standards and best practices for propulsion system qualification and acceptance.

Practical notes

• This role requires approximately 15% travel to launch and test facilities, which may include overnight stays.
• Flexibility to work weekends or shifted hours during critical project milestones is required to meet testing windows and launch commitments.
• Compensation includes equity, paid time off, sick leave, parental leave, and a learning stipend to support professional development.
• Reasonable accommodations for the application process are available upon request by emailing the designated support address.
• The work environment may involve exposure to mechanical noise, vibration, and moderate physical activity during test stand operations.
• Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship for this position at this time.
• Relativity is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.