Propulsion Engineer II - Ground Fluids

About This Role

As the Propulsion Engineer II - Ground Fluids, you will serve as the technical authority for ground fluid systems across all Varda spacecraft programs. You will own the full lifecycle — from system architecture and schematic development through build, test, and live flight operations — and define the processes, standards, and infrastructure that every mission depends on. As we scale our launch cadence, you will shape our operational approach, lead propellant loading campaigns across multiple sites, and be the technical escalation point when things get hard.

Responsibilities

• Own ground fluid systems end-to-end: architecture, P&IDs, mechanical design, fabrication, and operations — spanning satellite bus GSE, thruster development test stands, and component acceptance test hardware
• Lead propellant loading campaigns across multiple Varda facilities, maintaining the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and mission readiness
• Define and continuously improve Varda's propellant handling processes, ensuring all commodities meet flight specifications
• Drive the ground fluids roadmap: identify capability gaps, prioritize investments, and help build out the team
• Author and maintain technical standards, work instructions, assembly procedures, and engineering documentation used across the propulsion organization
• Mentor junior and mid-level engineers; serve as the primary technical reviewer for ground fluids work products
• Represent ground fluids in cross-functional design reviews, launch site coordination meetings, and partner discussions
• Serve as the final technical escalation point for complex fluid system problems — and drive them to closure

Basic Qualifications

• B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline, with consideration given to equivalent professional experience (typically 1–3+ years)
• 1+ years of hands-on experience in propulsion fluid system design, build, and test for spacecraft or launch vehicles
• Deep working knowledge of fluid system hardware: pressurized components, tubing, fittings, seals, valves, and instrumentation
• Demonstrated experience authoring and executing operational procedures for ground test or flight campaigns
• Proficiency in reading and authoring Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs)
• Hands-on experience with fluid system manufacturing processes and installation methods
• Familiarity with 91-710 or equivalent range safety requirements
• Proven record of technical ownership — driving problems to resolution across team and organizational boundaries
• Proficiency with CAD tools and PLM software

Preferred Skills and Experience

• 3+ years of propulsion fluid systems experience on spacecraft or launch vehicles
• Experience with hypergolic, cryogenic, or other spacecraft-grade propellants
• Test or launch site operations experience, including coordination with range safety and launch site personnel
• Prior experience leading a technical team or sub-discipline, formally or informally
• Track record of developing and enforcing engineering standards or design guidelines within a propulsion organization
• Strong technical communication skills — precision and clarity in work instructions, engineering specs, assembly procedures, and memos

Pay Range

• Salary Range: Eng II: $119,543 - $152,749/per year
• This role is on-site in El Segundo, CA
• Leveling and base salary is determined by job-related skills, education level, experience level, and job performance
• You will be eligible for incentives in the form of stock options and/or long-term cash awards