Propulsion Design Engineer

ABOUT US: Astro Mechanica is a vertically integrated aerospace company developing a scalable technology platform to power critical infrastructure, mission operations, and the future of flight. We apply aerospace engineering and quality standards across our products, delivering high performance, reliability, and efficiency for the most demanding operating environments. Astro Mechanica is backed by leading venture and strategic investors, including Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), Giant Step Capital, United Airlines Ventures, and Voyager Ventures. WHO WE ARE: We’re a team of passionate engineers dedicated to advancing aerospace. We’re generalists with specialist depth, united by a flat structure and a shared obsession with building things that work well. We move fast, stay pragmatic, and let engineering excellence speak louder than hierarchy. WHO YOU ARE: Astro Mechanica is seeking a Propulsion Engineer to join our growing team. The ideal candidate is someone who can take full ownership of hardware design from concept to production, and has a deep understanding of their impact on surrounding systems. Technical challenges are resolved from first principles. Your work at Astro Mechanica will have a direct impact on the configuration and performance of the Duality™ engine. In this role, your mission will be to design, analyze, and validate critical propulsion systems from early prototype through flight qualification, vehicle integration, and aircraft flight. You embody the test-like-you-fly philosophy. WHAT YOU’LL DO: - Ideate on design trade studies while considering system-level impacts - Complete detailed design and support with structural, thermal, fluid analyses - Present design reviews and solicit feedback from stakeholders - Assemble prototypes firsthand, design complementary tooling, establish work instructions - Conduct hardware test and analyze data to verify requirements and performance metrics - Diagnose hardware problems efficiently and determine corrective actions WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR: - 2+ years hands-on experience with fluidic and mechanical systems, propulsion systems - Proficient in solid, surface, and sheet metal CAD modeling (Siemens NX) - Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, precision measurement and GD&T - Understanding of propulsion systems, heat transfer, thermodynamics, and turbomachinery - Experience with data acquisition, instrumentation, and power electronics - Takes initiative for continuous improvement (not just completing assigned tasks) - Flexibility to work in fast-paced environment - Attentive to detail and maintain a high level of quality in all work PERKS AND BENEFITS: - Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) - 401(k) program and transparent stock option plan - Self-managed and flexible time-off policy, including PTO, paid holidays, and sick time - Flexible work environment - Company-funded perks, including weekly team lunches and Astro Mechanica swag ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: At Astro Mechanica, we highly value in-office work to foster collaboration and strengthen our company culture. We consider working in the office five days a week an essential part of the employee's role. Astro Mechanica is an equal opportunity employer. We proudly recruit and hire a diverse workforce and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.