Lead Propulsion Engineer

Position Overview

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions and empower our people to make a real impact. We are seeking a passionate, detail-oriented problem-solver to serve as a Lead Propulsion Engineer in support of the Hypersonics Division. In this role, you will act as a Subject Matter Expert and lead a team of propulsion engineers in the design, development, testing, and deployment of SRMs, Liquid Engines, and Air Breather systems to support critical, “can’t fail” missions.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a clear understanding of overall system interdependencies and interfaces for SRMs/LEs.
• Develop system level and interface requirements for SRMs/LEs.
• Apply familiarity with propellant formulations, modeling, and motor performance analysis.
• Integrate and validate SRM/LE subsystems and systems testing.
• Demonstrate a deep understanding of Air Breather propulsion configurations including Ram and Scram.
• Evaluate AB inlet, combustor, diffuser, and isolator design and testing methods.
• Utilize propulsion-related requirements and test procedures along with manufacturing methods and tooling strategies.
• Leverage previous experience with mixing, casting, and firing SRMs.
• Assist in developing testing plans and process improvements for SRM/LE development.
• Manage multiple vendors/providers while maintaining intellectual property integrity.
• Collaborate effectively within team environments and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Advise and support government customer analyses on materials, equipment, and infrastructure for missile proliferation and production.
• Mentor colleagues on solid propellant fundamentals, modeling, and manufacturing requirements.
• Facilitate configuration management of the propulsion technical data package.
• Identify, mitigate, and resolve propulsion-related risks, issues, and opportunities.
• Coordinate propulsion engineering efforts with the customer.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Materials Science, Systems, Electrical Engineering or equivalent from an ABET-accredited university.
• Minimum of 12 years of relevant experience.
• Self-starter with excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Detailed understanding of SRM/LE/AB architecture development and testing.
• Life-cycle experience through DDT&E, production, and beyond.
• Thorough understanding of DoD acquisition processes and methods.
• Experience with analysis tools such as CEA, NASTRAN, and FEA for propulsion development and formulation testing.
• Ability to thrive in dynamic, fast-paced environments with strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to document work and interface effectively with team members.
• Knowledge of the functionality and interdependency of missile and hypersonic systems.
• Experience applying systems engineering practices to support hypersonic programs under unique developmental constraints.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in DoD Missile, Reentry Vehicle, or Hypersonics fields.
• Detailed understanding of top-down systems engineering for architecture development and bottoms-up verification.
• Further insights into DoD acquisition processes and methods.
• Ability to obtain Top Secret Clearance is a plus.
• Strong communication skills with proven ability to document work and interface with team members.
• Experience collaborating with customers to clarify program challenges and system requirements.

Benefits & Perks

• Pay Range: $131,300.00 - $237,350.00
• Competitive Compensation
• Health and Wellness Programs
• Income Protection
• Paid Leave and Retirement Benefits