Director, Propulsion Engineering

Job#: 3052043

Job Description:
Director, Propulsion Engineering

Location: Leander, Texas (Onsite)

Role Overview

The Propulsion Director provides technical and organizational leadership for the design, development, test, qualification, and operation of propulsion systems. This role is accountable for multiple engine and fluid system programs, from initial architecture trades through flight operations. This position requires deep engagement in hardware development, a clear technical vision, and an execution strategy in a fast-paced environment. The scope of the propulsion engineering department includes launch vehicle engines, spacecraft propulsion, vehicle fluid systems, valve design, and propulsion analysis teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Set and own the technical vision, strategy, and execution of all propulsion and fluid systems programs.
• Lead, develop, and grow a multidisciplinary propulsion organization of approximately 100 engineers.
• Maintain ownership of propulsion hardware and systems across the full lifecycle, from requirements definition through operations.
• Serve as a senior technical authority for propulsion and fluid systems, supporting design reviews, test readiness, and anomaly resolution.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including structures, avionics, software, manufacturing, integration, and quality.
• Drive propulsion system performance, reliability, cost, and manufacturability through disciplined design practices.
• Ensure robust risk identification, mitigation, and closure through analysis, testing, and operational feedback.
• Oversee development, qualification, and acceptance testing of propulsion components, subsystems, and engines.
• Contribute directly to new engine and propulsion technology development.
• Establish and uphold engineering standards, best practices, and compliance with applicable industry requirements.

Required Qualifications

• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 8+ years of experience in the design, development, and test of aerospace propulsion and/or fluid systems.
• 5+ years of experience leading engineering teams, with demonstrated success delivering complex hardware programs.
• Strong technical foundation in propulsion system design, fluid dynamics, combustion, turbomachinery, thermodynamics, and thermal systems.
• Demonstrated experience owning hardware from early concept through testing, qualification, and operation.
• Hands-on experience driving performance, reliability, or design-for-manufacturability initiatives.
• Deep understanding of cryogenic and storable propellant systems.
• Working knowledge of relevant aerospace standards and requirements.
• Working knowledge of manufacturing, fabrication, integration, and quality control relevant to fluid components.
• Knowledge of fluid components such as valves, regulators, and instrumentation, and experience performing fluid systems sizing analysis.
• Proven ability to rapidly develop solutions with partially defined or evolving requirements.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or an equivalent field.
• Extensive experience developing and operating liquid rocket engines, launch vehicles, or spacecraft.
• In-depth knowledge of cryogenic, high-pressure, or high-temperature system operations.
• Experience with fluid system subcomponent or pressurized component development, design, or testing.
• Familiarity with multiple engine cycle architectures.
• Proven ability to build and sustain a high-performing engineering culture.
• Demonstrated experience with full hardware lifecycle ownership, from design through operation.
• A demonstrated passion for advancing propulsion technology and integrating emerging capabilities.

What We Offer

A comprehensive benefits package is available to eligible employees. This includes generous health, dental, and vision plans with low plan deductibles, parental leave, educational reimbursement, short-term disability, and flexible PTO options.

Citizenship Requirements


Everforth Apex is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Everforth Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRateds Best of Staffing in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work in the United Kingdom and Mexico.

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Everforth Apex Benefits Overview: Everforth Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Everforth Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Everforth Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Everforth Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach. You can access a full list of our benefits, programs, support teams and resources within our 'Welcome Packet' as well, which an Everforth Apex team member can provide.

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