Propulsion Component Responsible Engineer at Hermeus – Los Angeles, California

As a Propulsion Component Responsible Engineer you will own the development of flight-critical mechanical and fluid system components, including valves, actuators, and integrated propulsion hardware. You will be responsible for taking hardware from clean-sheet design through build, test, qualification, and production, working in close collaboration with propulsion and vehicle teams. Your work will directly support systems operating in high-pressure, high-temperature, and dynamic flight environments.

• Own propulsion components (e.g., valves, actuation systems, and fluid control hardware) from concept through flight-ready delivery
• Design for extreme environments, including high pressure, temperature, and transient operating conditions
• Drive engineering trade studies across performance, manufacturability, reliability, and testability
• Execute clean-sheet design, analysis, and integration of propulsion components
• Support hardware through rapid build–test–iterate cycles
• Lead troubleshooting and root cause analysis during development and test
• Work with propulsion and vehicle system owners to define requirements, interfaces, and integration strategies
• Perform system-level sizing, architecture, and design trades
• Lead development testing, qualification, and acceptance of flight hardware
• Support transition from prototype to repeatable, production-ready designs
• Define operational limits and ensure reliability and safety across all phases of use
• Make risk-informed engineering decisions aligned with program goals and timelines
• Prioritize work effectively in a fast-paced, evolving development environment

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
• 5+ years of experience developing mechanical or propulsion-related hardware
• Experience contributing to hardware through design, build, and test cycles
• Strong fundamentals in fluids, thermodynamics, mechanics, and materials
• Hands-on experience with mechanical design, assembly, or integration

• Experience with propulsion systems, high-pressure fluid systems, or aerospace mechanisms
• Experience designing components such as valves, actuators, or fluid control hardware
• Familiarity with high-temperature materials, sealing strategies, and failure modes
• Strong knowledge of GD&T, tolerance stack-up, and precision assemblies
• Experience supporting hardware testing and resolving real-world failures
• Proficiency with CAD tools (NX preferred) and analysis tools (ANSYS or similar)
• Experience working in rapid hardware development environments (startup or flight programs)
• Scripting experience (Python, MATLAB, or similar) for analysis or automation

• Willingness to work hands-on in build, integration, and test environments
• Ability to support extended hours during critical test campaigns
• Willingness to travel to support hardware builds and flight tests
• Must be eligible to access export-controlled information