Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions with unmatched flexibility and propulsion capability. We build fast and iterate quickly.
Who We're Looking For
We are seeking an experienced Senior Engineer III / Principal Engineer IV – Propulsion Systems to lead the development of advanced flight-qualified propellant tanks and spacecraft propulsion systems supporting next-generation Ranger missions. In this role, you will provide technical leadership across the full product lifecycle—from architecture and concept development through design, manufacturing, qualification, integration, and flight operations.
Depending on your experience and technical expertise, you will serve as the technical lead for either propellant tank development or spacecraft propulsion subsystem development, driving innovation across chemical and electric propulsion technologies. This position is ideal for an engineer who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys solving complex technical challenges, and is passionate about delivering flight-ready hardware for demanding national security, civil, and commercial space missions.
You'll Make an Impact
Lead the development of advanced propellant tanks or spacecraft propulsion systems from concept through flight qualification and mission operations
Provide technical leadership across design, analysis, manufacturing, testing, integration, qualification, and flight support activities
Lead multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver mission-critical hardware on schedule and within program objectives
Serve as the technical authority for propulsion system architecture, subsystem design, and component development
Conduct propulsion trade studies and system architecture evaluations to optimize spacecraft performance, reliability, and operational flexibility
Drive technical program execution, risk reduction strategies, development planning, and long-range technology roadmaps
Support customer engagements, executive program reviews, technical interchange meetings, and design reviews
Mentor and develop engineers across multiple disciplines while promoting technical excellence and engineering best practices
Lead resolution of complex technical and programmatic issues throughout the spacecraft development lifecycle
Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that strengthen propulsion engineering processes, technical standards, and organizational capabilities
What It Takes
Senior Engineer III
Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline
7+ years of relevant aerospace or propulsion engineering experience
Demonstrated ability to lead engineering teams through major project milestones
Experience leading low- to medium-complexity propulsion or spacecraft development efforts
Recognized technical contributor with strong engineering judgment and decision-making skills
Experience managing technical schedules, program execution, and engineering priorities
Principal Engineer IV
Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline
10+ years of relevant aerospace or propulsion engineering experience
Demonstrated success leading multidisciplinary engineering teams through complex spacecraft development programs
Established technical leadership across medium- to high-complexity engineering efforts
Recognized subject matter expert with experience influencing technical direction across programs or organizations
Experience managing technical schedules, budgets, and program execution
Technical Expertise
Candidates should possess demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following areas:
Propellant Tank Development
Design, analysis, fabrication, testing, and integration of spacecraft propellant tanks
Pressure vessel design standards, structural qualification, and range safety compliance
Propellant management techniques for microgravity environments, including slosh dynamics
Tank fabrication and welding processes, including weld evaluation and quality assurance
Spacecraft Propulsion Systems
Design, analysis, fabrication, integration, testing, and operation of spacecraft propulsion systems
Spacecraft pressure systems, propulsion architecture, and range safety requirements
Integration of propulsion systems with spacecraft avionics, structures, thermal, power, and mission systems
Chemical and electric propulsion technologies, propulsion components, and spacecraft propulsion architectures
Assembly, Integration, and Test (AI&T) activities supporting spacecraft propulsion subsystem verification and vehicle integration
Nice-to-Have Experience
3+ years leading engineering teams developing spacecraft propulsion systems or propellant tanks
Experience supporting fast-paced aerospace, defense, or commercial space programs
Systems engineering experience including requirements development, interface management, verification, and validation planning
Experience applying Lean Six Sigma, project management methodologies, or continuous improvement practices
Experience utilizing AI-enabled engineering, modeling, or design optimization tools
Experience leading rapid hardware development programs from prototype through flight qualification
Broad spacecraft systems knowledge beyond propulsion, including power, structures, avionics, thermal, or GNC
Subject matter expertise in spacecraft propulsion components such as valves, regulators, thrusters, pressure vessels, feed systems, or fluid control devices
What You'll Get
Ownership – Lead the development of mission-critical spacecraft propulsion systems and propellant tanks supporting advanced Ranger missions
Innovation – Help develop next-generation propulsion technologies enabling agile, high-mobility space operations
Impact – Deliver flight-ready propulsion hardware supporting national security, civil, and commercial space missions
Growth – Join a multidisciplinary engineering team where you'll influence spacecraft architecture, propulsion technology, and mission execution
Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity participation
Base Salary: $160,000–$230,000
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, technical expertise, leadership experience, critical skills, and business considerations. Position level (Senior Engineer III or Principal Engineer IV) will be determined based on the selected candidate's qualifications and experience. Highly competitive equity grants and sign-on opportunities may be available and are considered part of Quantum Space's total compensation package.
Additional Requirements
To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. §1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.
