The Propulsion Manager for the Vira engine is a hybrid role that blends deep technical ownership with people and project leadership. While titled as a manager, this individual is fundamentally the Responsible Engineer (RE) for the Vira upper-stage liquid rocket engineowning its design, development, testing, and delivery from concept to flight.
You will lead a team of propulsion engineers to develop a vacuum-optimized, high-performance engine that emphasizes simplicity, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. This is a hands-on, high-accountability role where youll be expected to lead by example, solve complex technical challenges, and drive execution in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities
Technical Ownership
Serve as the technical product owner for the Vira engine system
Lead the design, analysis, testing, and iteration of the engine and its subsystems
Translate long-term technical roadmaps into actionable daily priorities
Provide hands-on support during engine builds and test campaigns
Author and execute development, qualification, and acceptance test plans
Drive design for manufacturability and testability in collaboration with production teams
Develop innovative propulsion component designs that reduce part count, complexity, and cost
Team Leadership
Manage a team of 46 propulsion engineers
Guide the team through technical problem-solving and decision-making
Foster a culture of accountability, independence, and continuous improvement
Support cross-functional communication with structures, fluids, avionics, and vehicle teams
Represent the propulsion team in design reviews, failure investigations, and program milestones
Execution & Delivery
Own the project schedule, drive team scrums, and track progress against milestones
Coordinate with vendors and internal stakeholders to ensure timely delivery
Be present where the hardware isthis is an onsite, hands-on leadership role
Ensure the propulsion system is delivered on time, on budget, and flight-ready
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Bachelors degree in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
5+ years of experience in propulsion or fluid systems, ideally in rocket engine development
Proven experience owning a complex system or assembly from concept through test
Strong fundamentals in fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, combustion, and rocket engine cycles
Hands-on experience with engine subcomponents (valves, regulators, tubing, etc.)
Working knowledge of fabrication and manufacturing techniques (machining, welding, NDE, assembly)
Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic, fast-paced environment
Technically credible, decisive, and action-oriented
Masters degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering
Experience with liquid rocket engine development, testing, or flight operations
Familiarity with CAD and configuration management tools (e.g., Siemens NX, Teamcenter)
Proficiency in Python, LabVIEW, GFSSP, Winplot, or similar tools for data analysis
Experience with Jira or other project/configuration management platforms
In-depth knowledge of manufacturing processes, change management, and risk mitigation
Benefit packages for this role will start on the 31st day of employment and include medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as HSA, FSA, and DCFSA account options, and 401k retirement account access with employer matching. Employees in this role are also entitled to paid sick leave and/or other paid time off as provided by applicable law.