Propulsion Engineer II – Defense Systems

Summary

Vaya Space is a privately owned space and defense company headquartered on Florida’s Space Coast. We are advancing patented vortex-hybrid engine technology to deliver propulsion systems that meet the highest standards of safety, affordability, and sustainability. In the commercial market, our Dauntless launch vehicle provides reliable and cost-effective access to orbit. In defense, our hybrid propulsion systems support next-generation tactical, hypersonic, and missile defense application.

We are a fast-paced, mission-driven team tackling some of the hardest problems in aerospace. Success at Vaya requires personal leadership, strong technical skills, and meticulous attention to detail. Every team member contributes across disciplines, stepping up where needed to drive innovation forward. If you want to make an impact and help shape the future of space and defense, Vaya Space is the place to do it.

Travel Required

Up to 10%

Required Security Clearance

Candidate must be able to obtain an active U.S Government Security Clearance at the Secret level if required.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Support system, subsystem, and component level design, characterization, and optimization of advanced propulsion systems.
Conduct trade studies to evaluate design decisions at all stages of the design process
Develop comprehensive supporting documentation throughout the design process including trade studies, design reviews, and requirements verification
Interface with stakeholders to verify propulsion system requirements are met
Assist in development and maintenance of CAD models, assemblies, and drawings of components and systems
Development of fluid system components including design, fabrication, assembly, and testing
Identification, communication, and mitigation of technical, schedule, and cost risks
Coordinate with test engineers and technicians to test engine designs, including setting test requirements and identifying appropriate instrumentation

Qualifications

BS. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or similar Engineering disciplines
4+ years of propulsion system design for missile systems. An appropriate M.S. degree can substitute for 2 years’ experience.
Experience with hybrid, solid, or liquid bi-propellant rocket engines and associated test systems
Experience with Computer Aided Design (CAD) in Siemens NX or similar software with generating, reading, and interpreting engineering models and drawings
Experience with technical drawings and GD&T conforming to ASME Y14.5
Willingness to work flexible hours as necessary.
To comply with U.S. export regulations, such as the International Traffic in Arms Regulations and the Export Administration Regulations you must (a) be a “U.S. Person” as defined under those regulations, which includes U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents of the U.S., and protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or (b) otherwise be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce, as appropriate.
Eligible to gain and maintain a SECRET clearance if required

Preferred Skills and Education

MS. in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering
Strong interpersonal and collaborative skills to assist in problem-solving on large interdisciplinary teams
Strong written and verbal communication skills to concisely present engineering problems and solutions
Self-motivated and capable of developing self-regulated high detail result-oriented work with minimal input and direction
Experience with hybrid rocket engines and associated test systems
Experience with supersonic or hypersonic airbreathing propulsion systems
Experience with thermal protection systems such as ceramics, CMCs, or ablative material composition, design, and testing
Design experience in metal additive manufacturing (Laser powder bed fusion, direct energy deposition, etc.) and post processing
Understanding and experience of metal fabrication techniques including CNC, welding, and post-fabrication inspection
Familiarity with oxygen cleanliness standards, cleaning procedures, and material compatibilities
Academic and technical fundamental understanding of Fluid Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Thermofluidic Mechanics, and Advanced Materials
Passion for finding new solutions to unique missile propulsion problems

Propulsion Engineer - Defense Systems