Chemical Propulsion Engineer
Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.
For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.
Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.
We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.
About the Role
Apex is seeking a Chemical Propulsion Engineer to join our closely integrated team, driving the development of our chemical propulsion systems to meet the requirements of our spacecraft bus. You will have the opportunity to approach this from a clean-sheet design. You will also be one of the first chemical propulsion engineers at Apex Space, and will help build our chemical propulsion capabilities, team, and infrastructure from the ground up.
Responsibilities:
Design, build, and test chemical propulsion systems
Design and build propulsion infrastructure and test facilities
Design propulsion system architecture, develop product
specifications, and maintain Technical Performance Metrics (TPMs)
Develop qualification and acceptance test plans and support said
testing
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate propulsion
systems with other subsystems (e.g., electrical, thermal, structure).
Troubleshoot anomalies that arise during manufacturing, lead
investigation efforts, and ensure design for manufacturability (DFM)
approaches are followed during all stages of development
Directly interface with customer/supplier relationships, conduct
analyses, and provide support (either virtual or onsite) as necessary.
Contribute to proposals and business development efforts as needed.
Requirements:
U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data.
Bachelor's degree in mechanical, propulsion, or other aerospace-related engineering discipline.
3+ years of propulsion design and test experience
Experience with mono and bi-propellant chemical propulsion systems
Experience with handling and testing pressurized systems
Demonstrated history of designing fluidic systems, fluid system
instrumentation, and control components (i.e. tanks, regulators, pressure transducers, thermocouples, solenoid valves, etc.)
Experience with CAD software (NX, SolidWorks)
Working knowledge for manufacturing in a clean environment and following AS9100 protocols
Preferred Qualifications:
Master's in mechanical, propulsion, or other aerospace-related engineering discipline
Experience operating leak, burst, proof test facilities
Experience leading an hot-fire test campaigns (power and fluid delivery systems for ground test, data acquisition systems, thrust stands, and plume diagnostics).
Experience with chemical propulsion operations in space
Why Join Apex?
Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup that has raised more than $500M in funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.
What We Offer For Full-time Employees:
Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create
Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day
Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family
Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self
World-class Playa Vista office with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life
Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference
Ready to join a team where your contributions matter and your future is bright? Let's build something extraordinary together.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, 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.