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Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer

Legion Technical Solutions LLC
San Jose, CA Full Time
POSTED ON 5/29/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 6/27/2026
We are seeking a Propulsion Engineer with a strong hands-on background in spacecraft hardware and propulsion system development. This hybrid role blends mechanical design, propulsion assembly and testing, spacecraft layout/architecture, and cross-functional collaboration across thermal, structural analysis, and manufacturing teams—with a strong emphasis on AIT execution and spacecraft hardware integration. The ideal candidate thrives in fast-paced, hardware-focused environments and enjoys working from concept through fabrication, test, and flight. 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Execute hands-on assembly and testing of propulsion systems, including tubing, heaters, sensors, valves, and other fluid-system hardware. 
  • Develop 3D CAD models, detailed part/assembly drawings, tolerance analyses, and integrated layouts optimized for tightly constrained spacecraft environments. 
  • Design spacecraft hardware such as brackets, enclosures, fluid-routing solutions, thermal/mechanical interfaces, and structural components. 
  • Generate models, documentation packages, and work instructions to support AIT (Assembly, Integration & Test) for propulsion and spacecraft mechanical hardware. 
  • Collaborate closely with structural, thermal, analysis, and manufacturing teams to iterate designs through the full engineering lifecycle—from early concepts to flight-ready hardware. 
  • Support propulsion and mechanical test campaigns, including setup, execution, data review, troubleshooting, and documentation. 
  • Apply aerospace standards—including range safety guidelines and RPUG requirements—to ensure compliance, safety, and mission success. 
  • Contribute to process development, continuous improvement, and flight-readiness maturation for mechanical and propulsion subsystems. 
Desired Skills & Experience 

  • Hands-on experience with propulsion system build-up and testing, including fluid systems, heaters, wiring/sensors, or valve integration. 
  • Mechanical design proficiency using modern CAD tools; experience with GD&T, tolerance stack-ups, and drawing release workflows. 
  • Familiarity with spacecraft packaging constraints, tight-tolerance interfaces, and multidisciplinary integration challenges. 
  • Working understanding of propulsion-system fundamentals, thermal behavior, or fluid dynamics is a plus. 
  • Knowledge of aerospace standards (range safety, RPUG, etc.) or prior experience working with flight hardware. 
  • Strong documentation skills and the ability to produce clear, concise technical communication. 
  • Effective collaborator in hands-on, cross-functional engineering environments; capable of taking hardware from bench to flight. 
Education & Work Experience 

  • BS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field. 3 years relevant experience. 
  • 3 to 5 years of on-the-job engineering experience. 
  • Desire to contribute to a highly hands-on engineering setting involving design, integration, testing, and flight hardware ownership.

Salary : $150,000 - $180,000

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