Director of Propulsion

Director of PropulsionDepartment: PropulsionEmployment Type: Full TimeLocation: Redondo Beach Compensation: $200,000 - $250,000 / yearDescriptionAs the Director of Propulsion at Impulse, you will architect and execute on a new family of Impulse's space vehicles. You will build and manage a team of engineers to develop storable liquid propellant engines and systems into highly maneuverable and high reliability spacecraft. You will work directly with the CEO of Impulse and other senior propulsion engineers to optimize the flight systems for some of the most demanding on-orbit and landing operational missions contemplated today. You will work directly with leaders and individual contributors in GNC, software, avionics, structures and test to build highly efficient flight program(s). ResponsibilitiesArchitect new in-space propulsion systems, owning all components and working closely with leaders in other departments to achieve globally effective solutionsHire and mentor propulsion engineersLead the development of liquid rocket engines and propellant feedsystemsManage the certification process, including customer interactionsImplement and improve effective processes for the team to ensure excellent outcomesPerform rigorous analyses and testing while maintaining aggressive development timelinesResolve technical issues with innovative and resourceful solutionsEstablish and maintain high technical and professional standardsMinimum QualificationsBachelor's degree in engineering or science8+ years of demonstrated experience in the aerospace propulsion fieldDemonstrated experience managing and growing a teamProficiency working with liquid rocket propulsion systems, including hardware and test experience with flow control systems.Ability to perform system trades and own technical decisions ranging from thermal-fluids analyses to materials selectionDirect experience with the successful development and flight qualification / certification of spaceflight hardwareHands-on experience working with fluid, mechanical, electrical and controls systemsDesire to improve team processes and train other team membersAbility to communicate technical challenges, explain rationale and/or resolve concernsPreferred Skills and ExperienceAdvanced degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or a related fieldDemonstrated technical project leadership over propulsion development programs on tight timelines (4+ years of demonstrated experience with nitrous oxide as a propellantFamiliarity with aerospace structural analysis standards pertinent to liquid rocket engine development (e.g. NASA-STD-5012, NASA-STD-5020)Experience working in fast-paced, startup environmentAdditional Information:Compensation bands are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual level and base pay is determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities and internal equity. In addition to base salary, for full-time hires, you may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of stock options, and access to medical, vision & dental coverage as well as access to a 401(k) retirement plan. Impulse Space's spacecraft manufacturing business is subject to U.S. export regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR). This position requires applicants to be either U.S. Persons (i.e., U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent U.S. resident (green card holder), an individual granted asylum in the U.S., or an individual admitted in U.S. refugee status) or persons eligible to obtain an export license from the U.S. Departments of State, Commerce, or other applicable U.S. government agencies. Learn more about the ITAR here. Impulse Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Impulse Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Created: 2026-04-13