Design Engineer

Position Overview

Virginia Spaceport Authority is seeking a skilled and motivated Design Engineer to support the development, modification, and maintenance of cryogenic and fluid systems at the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport (MARS). This role is essential to the safe and efficient delivery of propellants, inert gases, and other mission-critical fluids throughout our ground support infrastructure. The successful candidate will focus on the design, analysis, and specification of piping systems, cryogenic storage tanks, and fluid handling equipment for space launch operations, including system upgrades, expansions, and new facility construction.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and update P&IDs, piping layouts, and detailed mechanical system designs for cryogenic and high-pressure systems, including pumps, tanks, valves, controls, and instrumentation.
• Collaborate with internal and external customers to define and refine system requirements while ensuring compliance with operating parameters and engineering margins.
• Support Operations and Maintenance during system activation through initial testing, data analysis, system tuning, and root cause analysis of non-conformances.
• Perform and review engineering analyses (thermal, hydraulic, mechanical) to verify that systems meet operational needs and performance criteria.
• Prepare and review drawing packages and documentation to ensure designs are robust, code-compliant, and suitable for intended operating conditions.
• Provide technical guidance and training on design principles, system function, and operational procedures across MARS facilities.
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders including Operations, Maintenance, Safety, Quality Assurance, and management to align project objectives.
• Develop and manage task plans encompassing scope definition, budget estimates, scheduling, and performance metrics in adherence with quality and safety policies.
• Create and maintain engineering documentation, including specifications, design review materials, and detailed technical calculations.
• Lead or participate in field inspections and readiness reviews to assess installation quality and safety compliance.
• Generate and oversee system change documentation aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, safety, reliability, and maintainability.
• Manage oversight for maintenance, alterations, and operational activities to ensure timely, safe, and budget-compliant completion.
• Apply independent engineering judgment to resolve complex technical issues and develop innovative solutions for ground support systems.
• Perform additional duties as assigned in support of spaceport development and operations.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or a related field.
• 3-5 years of design engineering experience, including working knowledge of ASME B31.3 and other relevant piping design standards.
• Experience in the design, analysis, and inspection of piping systems covering material selection, flexibility analysis, and pressure drop calculations.
• Proficiency in P&ID development, isometric drawings, and piping layout design using AutoCAD Plant 3D, Solidworks, or similar tools.
• Understanding of welding, non-destructive testing (NDT), fabrication methods, hazardous area classifications, pressure relief systems, and fluid flow principles.
• Proven problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot piping system failures and operational inefficiencies.
• Valid driver's license is required.
• Ability to review and interpret technical documentation, specifications, and mechanical datasheets.

Preferred Qualifications

• PE license is preferred.
• Familiarity with pipe stress analysis software such as CAESAR II or AutoPIPE.
• Experience working with cryogenic, high-pressure, or corrosive fluid systems in industrial or aerospace settings.
• Knowledge of regulatory and safety requirements for industrial and aerospace facilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and SharePoint; effective verbal and written communication skills.

Benefits & Perks

• Compensation: Salary is dependent on experience.
• Opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge aerospace projects at a rapidly evolving spaceport.
• Work in a dynamic team environment supporting advanced technological systems and infrastructure.
• Must be eligible for NASA credentials and able to pass a pre-employment background check and drug test.