Senior Manager, Propulsion Systems
This role falls under U.S. export rules, so the posting asks for U.S. person status. That means a U.S. citizen, a green card holder, a refugee or an asylee.
About the role
As the Senior Manager, Propulsion Systems at Impulse, you will own all aspects of propulsion system design, analysis, implementation and operation while working closely with a fast paced, agile team that produces high-performance spacecraft from clean sheet designs.
Responsibilities
- Serve as the focal point for multiple propulsion systems now under development from cryogenic to storable propellant systems with mission lengths from one day to 5+ years.
- Define and create new systems for future spacecraft and landers
- Serve as programmatic owner of all related fluids and control systems while leading design reviews and trades on major systems and propulsion components
- Create and execute propulsion system test campaigns
- Manage and develop a team that provides responsible engineering support across multiple programs and vehicles
- Work with wide ranging teams across engineering, manufacturing and operations to deliver a reliable and high-performance flight vehicle
- Resolve technical issues with innovative resourceful solutions
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in engineering, science or related field
- 8+ years of demonstrated experience in the aerospace propulsion field
- Prior experience working with cryogenic propellants and liquid rocket propulsion development
- Proficiency in basic principles of fluids, thermodynamics, heat transfer, mechanics and materials
- Hands-on experience working with fluid, mechanical, electrical and controls systems
- Demonstrated ability of taking project ownership of a complex system and working collaboratively and effectively with small teams
- Familiarity with NASA and DoD standards regarding spaceflight propulsion specifications and standards
Preferred Skills and Experience
- Master’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering
- 6+ years of demonstrated experience working in lead roles on ground test or flight propulsion systems
- 8+ years of demonstrated experience working with liquid methane systems and/or long life, on-orbit systems
- Experience in a startup or agile development environment
Additional 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.
Copied from the listing Impulse Space published, verified 30 Oct 2026.
About Impulse Space
Transfer vehicles that carry satellites past the orbit their rocket leaves them in.
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