Senior Engineer (Engineer III) / Principal Engineer (Engineer IV) – Propulsion
Quantum Space
| Company | Quantum Space |
| Category | Engineering |
| Location | Rockville |
| Remote | On-site (inferred) |
| Employment | Not stated |
| Level | Lead |
| Salary | Not stated by the employer |
| Posted | 29 May 2026 |
| Last verified | 8 Aug 2026 |
| Source | Employer ATS (greenhouse) |
Description
Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions with unmatched flexibility and propulsion capability. We build fast and iterate quickly.
Who We're Looking For
We are seeking an experienced Senior Engineer III / Principal Engineer IV – Propulsion Systems to lead the development of advanced flight-qualified propellant tanks and spacecraft propulsion systems supporting next-generation Ranger missions. In this role, you will provide technical leadership across the full product lifecycle—from architecture and concept development through design, manufacturing, qualification, integration, and flight operations.
Depending on your experience and technical expertise, you will serve as the technical lead for either propellant tank development or spacecraft propulsion subsystem development, driving innovation across chemical and electric propulsion technologies. This position is ideal for an engineer who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys solving complex technical challenges, and is passionate about delivering flight-ready hardware for demanding national security, civil, and commercial space missions.
Where You'll Make an Impact
Lead the development of advanced propellant tanks or spacecraft propulsion systems from concept through flight qualification and mission operations
Provide technical leadership across design, analysis, manufacturing, testing, integration, qualification, and flight support activities
Lead multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver mission-critical hardware on schedule and within program objectives
Serve as the technical authority for propulsion system architecture, subsystem design, and component development
Conduct propulsion trade studies and system architecture evaluations to optimize spacecraft performance, reliability, and operational flexibility
Drive technical program execution, risk reduction strategies, development planning, and long-range technology roadmaps
Support customer engagements, executive program reviews, technical interchange meetings, and design reviews
Mentor and develop engineers across multiple disciplines while promoting technical excellence and engineering best practices
Lead resolution of complex technical and programmatic issues throughout the spacecraft development lifecycle
Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that strengthen propulsion engineering processes, technical standards, and organizational capabilities
What It Takes
Senior Engineer III
Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline
7+ years of relevant aerospace or propulsion engineering experience
Demonstrated ability to lead engineering teams through major project milestones
Experience leading low- to medium-complexity propulsion or spacecraft development efforts
Recognized technical contributor with strong engineering judgment and decision-making skills
Experience managing technical schedules, program execution, and engineering priorities
Principal Engineer IV
Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline
10+ years of relevant aerospace or propulsion engineering experience
Demonstrated success leading multidisciplinary engineering teams through complex spacecraft development programs
Established technical leadership across medium- to high-complexity engineering efforts
Recognized subject matter expert with experience influencing technical direction across programs or organizations
Experience managing technical schedules, budgets, and program execution
Technical Expertise
Candidates should possess demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following areas:
Propellant Tank Development
Design, analysis, fabrication, testing, and integration of spacecra