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Propulsion Engineer

Wardstone
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El Segundo, CA$100k - $130kFull-timePosted 5d ago

About the role

You will design, build, and test the solid rocket motor for Wardstone's two interceptor platforms, owning motor components and test campaigns from design through static fire. Collaborate with mechanical, avionics, GNC, and aerodynamics teams; gain substantial hands-on motor experience.

Responsibilities

  • Design motor components such as nozzles, igniters, closures, insulation, and case hardware with guidance from the Senior Propulsion Engineer.
  • Build CAD models and create fabrication drawings.
  • Run internal ballistics, thermal, and structural analyses to support design decisions.
  • Prepare for and run static fires, pressure tests, and temperature-conditioned tests.
  • Design and build test fixtures, plumbing, and instrumentation (pressure transducers, load cells, thermocouples, high-speed cameras).
  • Set up data acquisition systems, reduce test data, and compare results to predictions.
  • Work with vendors and machine shops to fabricate parts and perform inspections on arrival.
  • Follow and help improve safety procedures for handling energetic materials; coordinate with external test ranges and energetics facilities.
  • Support motor integration with mechanical and avionics teams; present work in design reviews and participate in flight tests.

Qualifications

  • B.S. in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering, or related field.
  • 2+ years of experience with propulsion hardware or high-pressure systems (student rocketry or similar project teams count).
  • Working knowledge of rocket propulsion, including internal ballistics, combustion, and heat transfer.
  • Solid CAD skills (parts, assemblies, drawings).
  • Hands-on test experience (instrumentation, data acquisition, or test operations).
  • Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for analysis.
  • Must be a U.S. person per ITAR (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual) and eligible for U.S. security clearance.

Skills

Required:Aerospace/Mechanical/Chemical EngineeringPropulsion hardware / high-pressure systemsInternal ballistics, combustion, heat transferCAD (parts, assemblies, drawings)Instrumentation / data acquisition / test operationsPython or MATLABClearance eligibility (ITAR)
Last updated Oct 21, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.
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About Wardstone

Satellites for Missile Defense

Wardstone is a space defense-tech company developing next-generation capabilities to protect the United States and its allies from missiles and other space-based threats. We design, build, and deploy satellites equipped with space-based interceptors to kinetically counter hypersonic and ballistic missiles.

space-explorationsatellitesrocketryaerospace
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