Chief Engineer, Hypersonic Vehicle

About the role

Stratolaunch is pioneering advancements in hypersonic technology, focusing on the development of test vehicles that can achieve speeds beyond Mach

5. We are seeking a Chief Engineer to spearhead our hypersonic air vehicle projects. This position demands a highly skilled technical leader who can navigate the complexities of the development lifecycle, manage associated risks, and maintain effective communication with both internal teams and external partners.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Work closely with Program Directors and Managers to guarantee the successful delivery of customer-focused programs.
• Serve as the leading technical authority, ensuring the integration of various engineering disciplines, including aerodynamics, propulsion, avionics, and structural engineering.
• Perform trade studies to inform technical decision-making and optimize project outcomes.
• Apply Systems Engineering methodologies to oversee project scope and ensure the delivery of high-quality results.
• Aid in the planning and execution of tests, both on the ground and during flight operations.
• Contribute to the creation of business proposals and participate in strategic planning initiatives.
• Facilitate technical meetings and reviews, ensuring comprehensive evaluations at critical project milestones.
• Develop staffing strategies and identify skill gaps within the engineering team to enhance capabilities.
• Foster collaboration across the organization to achieve business objectives and improve program success rates.

Requirements

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential.
• A demonstrated history of success as an engineering leader, with the ability to balance cost, schedule, and technical performance effectively.
• Experience in managing technical teams and leading engineering projects to successful completion.
• A solid background in the maintenance, modification, or testing of aerospace systems.
• Proven experience in recruiting and onboarding engineering talent.
• Ability to engage effectively with customers and external stakeholders.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to tackle complex technical challenges.
• Capacity to operate independently in a dynamic environment to achieve business goals.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen and capable of obtaining a Department of Defense security clearance.

Nice to have

• Previous experience serving as a Chief Engineer on development programs.
• Familiarity with the development of hypersonic and supersonic vehicles.
• Background in defense contracts and classified projects.
• Experience with hypersonic tactical missile systems, including multi-stage systems and their integration with launch platforms.
• Knowledge of rocket propulsion systems is advantageous.
• Active TS/SCI security clearance is a plus.
• Proficiency in Siemens NX and Teamcenter software tools.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in Systems Engineering principles
• In-depth knowledge of aerospace systems
• Strong project management capabilities

Practical notes

• This role is primarily based in Mojave, CA, with a strong preference for candidates to work on-site. A hybrid work arrangement may be considered for exceptionally qualified individuals, requiring a minimum of 75-80% on-site presence.
• Travel requirements are minimal, estimated at less than 10%.

The base salary and leveling for this position will be determined on an individual basis, taking into account factors such as location, educational qualifications, and a comprehensive assessment of skills and experience during the interview process.

Benefits include a 9/80 work schedule, comprehensive healthcare options (medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage), paid maternity and parental leave, a 401(k) retirement savings plan with a 50% company match up to $11,500, and tuition reimbursement for further education.

Stratolaunch is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds. We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination or harassment in any form throughout the recruitment, hiring, and employment processes. U.S. Citizenship may be a requirement for certain positions that involve government security clearance.

About the company

High-speed flight test services form the core work of this American aerospace team. Company roots trace to 2011, created by Paul Allen and Burt Rutan to explore air-launched space transport. Home base is Seattle. Earlier collaboration on SpaceShipOne informed the project. New ownership arrived in 2019 through Cerberus Capital Management. Funding remains private. Operations follow a non-traditional defense contractor model, focusing on test missions and system development under continued private investment.