Senior Propulsion Engineer - Ground Fluids

About This Role

As the Senior Propulsion Engineer - Ground Fluids, you will to serve as the technical authority for our ground fluid systems, the backbone of every mission we fly. You'll be setting the strategy, writing the standards and building the infrastructure that gets Varda spacecraft off the ground and into orbit.

You'll own the full lifecycle of ground fluid systems, from architecture and design through build, test and live flight operations. You'll lead propellant loading campaigns across multiple sites, define our operational approach as we scale and serve as the technical subject matter expert for the broader propulsion team.

Responsibilities

Own it end-to-end: architecture, schematics, mechanical design, build, and operations for ground fluid systems across Varda's spacecraft programs — including satellite bus GSE, thruster development test stands, and component acceptance test hardware

Lead propellant loading campaigns across multiple Varda sites, setting the standard for safety, efficiency, and reliability

Define Varda's propellant handling processes from the ground up, ensuring every commodity meets flight specifications

Drive the ground fluids roadmap: identify capability gaps, prioritize investments, and help shape the team as we grow

Set the standard: author and maintain technical standards, work instructions, and engineering documentation that the whole propulsion organization builds on

Grow the next generation: mentor and develop junior and mid-level engineers; serve as the technical reviewer they rely on

Represent ground fluids in cross-functional design reviews, launch site coordination, and partner discussions

Serve as the final escalation point when problems get complex and drive them to resolution

Basic Qualifications

B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline; equivalent professional experience considered (typically 3-6+ years)

3+ years of hands-on experience in propulsion fluid system definition, 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 organizational boundaries

Proficiency with CAD tools and PLM software

Preferred Skills and Experience

6+ 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

Exceptional technical communication skills, precision and clarity in work instructions, engineering specifications, assembly procedures, and engineering memos

Pay Range

Salary Range: Senior: $140,333 – $179,314/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