Propulsion Engineer - Defense Systems

Propulsion Engineer II – Defense Systems

Summary

Vaya Space was founded on a bold vision: to revolutionize space access, ensuring it's not just affordable but safer and more sustainable. We're achieving this by embracing modern manufacturing, prioritizing physics-driven design, and relentlessly pursuing innovative solutions to the challenges facing our world today. Our pioneering hybrid rocket engine technology lies at the heart of that innovation.

 

The need for safer, more reliable, and more capable missile engines for our national defense is becoming critical as our nation faces increasingly complex defense challenges.  Vaya's technology offers a unique opportunity to not only safeguard our nation but to propel our defensive capabilities far beyond those of our adversaries.  We're expanding our team of pioneers to fully realize this potential.

 

As a Defense Propulsion Design Engineer, you will be part of a team of driven and enthusiastic professionals working to apply Vaya’s proprietary vortex hybrid engine technology to missile propulsion. You will be at the forefront of designing, analyzing, and developing hybrid propulsion systems for critical defense missions including tactical and theater ballistic missiles, hypersonic flight, and missile defense targets. While in this role you will work with a wide team of innovative and creative individuals to develop the ground-breaking hybrid rocket applications while driving down cost, complexity, and development timelines.

 

To be successful, it is vital that you are comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, collaborating to develop innovative solutions in all areas, while demonstrating personal leadership, technical competence, and attention to detail.  A willingness to branch outside your comfort zone is essential… we’re a small fast paced company and a “can-do” attitude is a must!

 

If you're ready to leverage your expertise to shape the future of defense technology, we encourage you to apply. This is your chance to not only advance your career but to contribute to a safer, more secure future for our nation. 

 

Travel Required

Up to 10%

 

Required Security Clearance

Ability to gain and maintain a SECRET clearance if required

 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Support system, subsystem, and component level design characterization and optimization of advanced propulsion systems
• Conduct trade studies to evaluate design decisions at all stages of the design process
• Support detailed lifecycle analysis of hybrid rocket engine systems and components
• Develop comprehensive supporting documentation throughout the design process including trade studies, design reviews, and requirements verification 
• Interface with stakeholders to verify propulsion system requirements are met
• Enable rapid technology innovation by supporting the development of algorithmic system design software
• Assist in development and maintenance of CAD models, assemblies, and drawings of components and systems that service various cryogenic and non-cryogenic oxidizers and pneumatic fluids
• Model fluid system assemblies to conduct stress, heat transfer, and pressure drop analysis
• Development of fluid system component design, fabrication, assembly, and testing
• Select and design components such as valves, tanks, filters, and piping
• Identification, communication, and mitigation of technical, schedule, and cost risks
• Support the fabrication and assembly of prototype hardware.
• Coordinate with test engineers and technicians to test engine designs, including setting test requirements and identifying appropriate instrumentation
• Assist in engine test operations and conduct post-test analysis of associated test data
• Identify, develop, and implement improvements to fabrication and testing capabilities to meet project development timelines while reducing cost

 

Qualifications

• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or similar engineering disciplines
• 4+ years of propulsion system design for missile systems.  An appropriate M.S. degree can substitute for 2 years’ experience.
• Experience with Computer Aided Design (CAD) in Siemens NX or similar software with generating, reading, and interpreting engineering models and drawings
• Working knowledge of MATLAB, Python, or similar software for developing analysis/design tools
• Experience with technical drawings and GD&T conforming to ASME Y14.5
• Hands-on experience with hybrid, solid, or liquid bi-propellant rocket engines and associated test systems
• Willingness to work flexible hours as necessary.
• US Person as defined in 22 CFR Part 120.15 (U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and those given asylum in the United States, and temporary residents granted amnesty) since work includes ITAR controlled technical data
• Eligible to gain and maintain a SECRET clearance if required

Preferred Skills and Education

• M.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or similar Engineering disciplines
• Experience with supersonic or hypersonic airbreathing propulsion systems
• Experience with thermal protection systems such as ceramics, CMCs, or ablative material composition, design, and testing
• Strong interpersonal and collaborative skills to assist in problem-solving on large interdisciplinary teams
• Self-motivated and capable of developing self-regulated high detail result-oriented work with minimal input and direction
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to concisely present engineering problems and solutions
• Familiarity with data processing, filtering, and analysis techniques
• Experience with Multiphysics Analysis tools such as STAR-CCM+ or similar software
• Experience with chemical combustion solvers such as NASA CEA
• Design experience in metal additive manufacturing (Laser powder bed fusion, direct energy deposition, etc.) and post processing
• Understanding and experience of metal fabrication techniques including CNC, welding, and post-fabrication inspection
• Familiarity with oxygen cleanliness standards, cleaning procedures, and material compatibilities
• Academic and technical fundamental understanding of Fluid Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Thermofluidic Mechanics, and Advanced Materials
• Passion for finding new solutions to unique missile propulsion problems