Lead Propulsion Engineer

Position Overview

Looking for an opportunity to make an impact? At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through our diverse and talented teams. We are seeking a passionate, detailed-oriented problem-solver to serve as a Lead Propulsion Engineer in support of the Hypersonics Division. In this role, you will serve as the subject matter expert leading a team in the development, design, testing, and deployment of advanced propulsion systems including solid propellant rocket motors (SRM), liquid engines (LE), and air breathers (AB). Your work will help tackle the world’s toughest security challenges for customers with “can’t fail” missions. Are you ready to make an impact? Share your resume with us today!

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a clear understanding of overall system interdependencies and interfaces for demonstrating all aspects of SRMs/LEs.
• Experience with system level and interface requirement development of SRMs/LEs.
• Familiarity with propellant formulations, modeling formulations, and modeling motor performance.
• Experience with SRM/LE subsystem/system integration and test validations.
• Deep understanding of AB propulsion configurations including Ram and Scram.
• Familiarity with AB inlet, combustor, diffuser, and isolator design and testing.
• Experience with propulsion related requirements, test procedures, analysis, verification methods, manufacturing methods, and tooling.
• Previous experience with mixing, casting, and firing SRMs.
• Assist in development of testing plans and process improvements for SRM/LE development.
• Manage multiple vendors/providers while maintaining IP integrity.
• Operate both in team environments and independently with minimal supervision.
• Advise and support government customers on analyses related to materials, equipment, and infrastructure for ballistic missile proliferation and production.
• Mentor colleagues on solid propellant rocket 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 or Electrical Engineering (or equivalent) from an ABET-accredited university with 12 years of relevant experience.
• Self-starter with excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Detailed understanding of SRM/LE/AB architecture development and testing through life-cycle experience including DDT&E & Production.
• Thorough understanding of DoD acquisition processes and methods.
• Experience with tools such as CEA, NASTRAN, FEA in support of propulsion development and formulation testing.
• Ability to remain focused and succeed in dynamic, fast-paced environments.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with keen attention to detail.
• Organizational skills to document work and interface effectively with team members.
• Solid understanding of the functionality and interdependency of missile and hypersonic systems.
• Experience working directly with customers to clarify program challenges and system requirements.
• Proven ability to apply systems engineering practices to support hypersonic programs with unique developmental constraints.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in DoD Missile, Reentry Vehicle, or Hypersonics fields.
• Familiarity with top-down systems engineering for architecture development and bottoms-up verification.
• In-depth knowledge of DoD acquisition processes and methods.
• Ability to obtain Top Secret Clearance is a plus.
• Proven track record of success in dynamic, fast-paced environments.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and organizational skills.
• Experience in collaborating with customers to clarify program challenges and system requirements.

Benefits & Perks

• Competitive Compensation: Pay Range $126,100.00 - $227,950.00
• Health and Wellness programs
• Income Protection
• Paid Leave and Retirement