Senior Propulsion Engineer

Vast · Hawthorne, California, United States · Engineering

Posted 2026-08-15

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Vast is looking for a Senior Propulsion Engineer, reporting to the Senior Manager of E-2 Engineering, to create the world's highest performing engine for small launchers, while optimizing for production and low cost. In this role, you will join a team with exciting momentum that has produced and successfully tested fully integrated engine development samples. You will be a key member who will help complete the flight engine design and transition the system from development to production.

This will be a full-time, exempt position located in our Hawthorne location.

Responsibilities

Design: work with our team and Chief Engineer to advance the design of E-2.  Create models and drawings of parts and assemblies.  Perform calculations and analyses with team support.

Manufacturing: work with our internal manufacturing team to create finished E-2 parts.  Support parts through 3d-printing, machining, post processing, and inspection.  Incorporate feedback to improve design for manufacturing.

Assembly and test: support our integration team with propulsion component assembly build and testing

Create schematics and document processes

Participate in engine testing with our test team and support with troubleshooting as needed

Communicate effectively with entire team to regularly provide updates on progress and issues

Always follow proper safety procedures and wear personal protective equipment in the workplace

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline

5+ years of experience with mechanical design, development, fabrication, assembly, or test (internships included)

Preferred Skills and Experience:

Ability to work as a teammate and independently to achieve ambitious goals

Hands-on engineering (Full-stack: computer to wrench to broom)

Communication (Written, visual, slides)

CAD (NX preferred)

Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T)

Problem-solving

Capable to grow positive, respectful, and professional relationships

Willing to make mistakes, take responsibilities, work independently and be transparent about your work

ANSYS

MATLAB

Additional Requirements:

Able to lift 25 lbs unassisted

Work in an outdoor environment exposed to extreme weather conditions

Willingness to work evenings and/or weekends to support critical mission milestones

Pay Range: California

$130,000—$190,000 USD

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