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Chemical Propulsion Engineer

To $700K
EngineeringUnited States

Job description
Our client an aerospace corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. Our client is a supfeme operator of a federally funded research and development center.

Our client is broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our clients' team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join our client and take your place in space today and space in the future.

Our client supports the effective and timely development and operation of national security systems through scientific research and the application of advanced technologies. Our valued client has more than 150 specialized laboratories used to test, analyze, and troubleshoot virtually every aspect of rocket and satellite system design, development, construction, deployment, and operation.

The expertise of thier laboratories’ technical staff allows our client to stay abreast of new technological developments and program support issues associated with rapidly evolving space systems.

Our client's propulsion science department is seeking a Chemical Propulsion Scientist (Research Scientist / Senior Scientist – Propulsion Engineering) with a strong foundation in chemistry, gas dynamics, and combustion, along with demonstrated hands-on experience safely conducting hazardous / energetic experiments.

Our clients office - production - floor solves a wide range of launch and spacecraft propulsion-related issues at various phases, from technology proof-of-concept to anomaly resolution of propulsion systems currently in use.The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our client's facility in California.

What You’ll Be Doing:
• Development, test, and application of chemical propulsion technologies in support of national security and civil space programs Lead and execute advanced propulsion research and development, often initiating experimental efforts from the ground up and providing clear technical direction to team members, Aerospace program offices, and government stakeholders

• Collaborate with management, senior technical staff, and customers to identify new opportunities, shape strategic direction, and develop technical proposals for projects that drive broad impact across the department.

• Responsible for safely executing hazardous and energetic experiments within our existing propulsion research facilities and laboratories, while also developing and expanding future test capabilities to support emerging in-space propulsion and/or defense system needs.

• Responsible for preparing reports and presentations to communicate results and recommendations to Aerospace program offices, government personnel, and other customers.

• Tackle challenging, multi-disciplinary problems by actively collaborating with other subject matter experts within the lab/office and the Engineering Technology Group.

What Corporate Skills You’ll Bring:
• Strong written and oral communication skills; Must work well in a team environment Possess organizational, time management and project management skills. Demonstrate flexibility and ability to adapt to changing organizational need Interpersonal skills to coordinate efforts and work with other internal and external organizations.


What You Need to be Successful:
Minimum requirements for our job are:
• M.S. degree in physical chemistry, chemical engineering, aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or equivalent STEM field is required.

• A minimum of (8) years of experience in chemical propulsion for in-space or defense applications is required.

• Demonstrated hands-on expertise in combustion device testing / analysis and high-hazard experimental systems is required.

• Knowledge of chemical propulsion system architectures and systems-level integration in an evolving space landscape.

• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain excellent working relations with customers and contractor personnel. Willingness to occasionally travel and to work off-business hours to support customer needs, approximately 10% (as required)This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.


In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for the Chemical Propulsion Scientist (Senior Scientist – Propulsion Engineering) include:
• A minimum of (12) years of experience in chemical propulsion for in-space or defense applications is required.

• Demonstrated expertise in experimental research for in-space chemical propulsion systems (e.g., monopropellant thrusters, bipropellant thrusters) and/or solid rocket motor technologies is required.

• Demonstrated record of providing chemical propulsion subject matter expertise and working directly with government program offices.

• Familiarity with the broader chemical propulsion landscape, including National Security Space (NSS) needs, commercial development, and civil mission requirements.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including the ability to present methods and results effectively in briefings, formal reports, and informal communications.

• A strong record of academic and technical research via peer-reviewed publications and active participation in professional associations, reflecting a commitment to ongoing professional development and established leadership within the field.


How You Can Stand Out:
It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:
• Ph.D. degree in physical chemistry, chemical engineering, aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or equivalent STEM field is strongly preferred.

• Expertise in safe handling and testing of hazardous and/or energetic propellants. (e.g., hydrazine, MMH, MON, explosives).

• Knowledge of propellant chemistry / formulation / synthesis and compatibility / materials considerations.

• Experience with Python / LabVIEW / MATLAB or similar software for data analysis and collection.


Our valued client offers a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. 

The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below.  Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.

(Leadership Competencies:
Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. Our client shows commitment to thier people. Cultivation of talent ensuring that they have a strong pipeline of future leaders, our client wants individuals who:
• Operate Strategically, Lead Change   Engage with Impact , Destroy Challenges, Conquer the unknown, Show No Fear.


Ways Our Client Reward Employees:
During your interview process, our team will provide details of our clients industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:
• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans;
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation;
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options;
• 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire;
• Flexible spending accounts;
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions;
• Relocation assistance;
• Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career;
• Education assistance programs;
• An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect.
Everybody is unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at our client an aerospace corporation of high regard.

Interested? Please send your Microsoft Word CV to Jonny Scott-Slater, Vish Atari, Joey Polpero, Ashley Armstrong LLM, Muchen Chang, Kato Suzuki, Abi Shasori, Troy Chrysler, Stephen Brown, Enzo Guluti, Steve Maclaren and Chris Lingard.

E - uswwrecruitment@aol.com

We will contact you by email and arrange a preliminary discussion.

Discretion protection and secrecy are assured at all times.

We are currently invloved in seeking the above mentioned category of professional. We are speaking to candidates in the market using direct approach methodologies.

Chemical Propulsion Scientist (Research Scientist / Senior Scientist – Propulsion Engineering) with a strong foundation in chemistry, gas dynamics, and combustion,