SpaceWorks Propulsion EngineerSpaceWorks Enterprises is an Atlanta-based aerospace R&D company pushing the boundaries of what's possible in high-speed flight systems, space operations, and advanced vehicle design. We work across the aerospace industry, from early-concept studies and multidisciplinary analysis to hardware prototyping and commercial software development. Our team delivers thoughtful and creative engineering solutions to customers including NASA, the Department of War, and leading commercial space organizations.The Propulsion Engineer will work within a small, multidisciplinary team of engineers on the design, analysis, development, and evaluation of advanced propulsion systems across a wide range of applications.
The role spans the full product lifecycle, from early conceptual studies and trade space exploration through ground testing and flight system development. The balance of work shifts between analytical/design tasks and hands-on hardware activities depending on program phase and need. The successful candidate brings strong fundamentals in propulsion physics, fluid mechanics, and thermodynamics, and is comfortable moving fluidly between high-fidelity modeling at their desk and direct hardware support in the lab or at the test site. The position is full-time and will be located at our facilities in Atlanta, GA.Conduct conceptual and advanced propulsion design studies, including cycle analysis, performance trades, and system architecture assessments that may not progress to hardwareDesign, analyze, and evaluate propulsion system components — including thrust chambers, ignition systems, valves, insulation, and seals — from paper studies through fabrication and test, as program phase dictatesDevelop full-vehicle and subsystem thermal models capturing external heating environments, structural conduction, and internal temperature responseSupport mechanical, electrical, and fluid integration of propulsion system elements, including liquid propulsion systems, propellant tanks, and pressurization systemsParticipate in ground testing activities — including procedure development, execution, and data reduction — with hands-on involvement scaled to program needsPerform propulsion performance modeling and model validation against experimental dataCommunicate effectively with external suppliers, partners, and customers through written and verbal channelsBrief customers across industry and U.S. government on program status, system performance, technical progress, and development roadmapsAt SpaceWorks, we believe in cultivating a culture that offers the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally. It is our firm belief that work-life balance is critical to strong, happy, healthy employees. As we challenge what is possible and push the boundaries of innovation, we stand together as a team. Here you will find a community that is dedicated to our mission as well as your personal goals. Here are just a few of the benefits we offer to our employees:Comprehensive healthcare coverage options including medical, telemedicine, vision, dental, long term disability, short term disability, health savings accounts, and flexible spending accountsFlexible work schedules - the position is in-office at our facility in Atlanta, GA, however we do offer telework days, compressed workweek options, core hours, and flex time to provide flexibility to our employeesTime to reset - paid time off, paid holidays, and paid parental leave401k + company match, opportunities for bonuses, employee experience events throughout the year, employee assistance program, and moreWhat We Are Looking For:BS degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or similarFundamental understanding of propulsion systems including fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, and combustionInterest in a variety of aerospace propulsion systems including rockets, RDREs, cold gas thrusters, turboramjets, and scramjetsDemonstrate strategic and innovative thinking with strong technical leadership skillsComfortable working in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary, collaborative environment typical of a small businessProficiency in computer aided design tools such as Solid Works, Unigraphics NX, CATIA, and/or PTC CreoPossess strong written and verbal communications skillsExpertise with Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)Must be a U.S. citizen and eligible to obtain a DoD Secret Security ClearanceBonus Points If You Have:MS degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or similar background5+ years of relevant work experience in launch vehicle, aircraft, or spacecraft systemsHands-on experience in liquid rocket engine integration and testingFundamental understanding of dynamic environments including shock, vibration, and acoustic loadsExperience designing structures compatible with cryogenic and non-cryogenic fluidsExperience with pipe/tube routing and/or flexibility analysisProficiency with transient fluid network modeling including tools such as GFSSP and/or ROCETSFamiliarity with modeling in Python, C/C++, Fortran and/or MATLABFamiliarity with aerospace fluid components (fittings, check valves, solenoid valves, relief valves, regulators, etc.)Familiarity with measurement devices (pressure transducers, thermocouples, RTDs, strain gages, etc.)Experience with GD&T per ASME Y14.5Desire to lead and manage individual contributorsIf this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply even if you don't meet all the requirements above. We're interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!