Propulsion Development Engineer

Company Overview

Rocket Factory Augsburg (RFA) is dedicated to providing affordable, versatile, and dependable space access. Specializing in the creation of small launch vehicles for deploying satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and beyond, RFA is at the forefront of the New Space movement in Europe, driving innovation to improve life on Earth.

Role Overview

We seek a motivated engineer to take ownership of the design and development of propellant inlet lines for liquid rocket engines, along with associated hardware, ensuring seamless integration with other subsystems. This role offers the chance to see your designs being launched and to collaborate closely with a passionate, international team.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to the creation and refinement of feed lines for liquid rocket engines guided by actual test data and project milestones.
• Engage actively with the Test, Manufacturing, Analytical, and Production teams on a daily basis.
• Diagnose test anomalies and conduct root cause analyses to enhance system performance.
• Maintain comprehensive and accurate design documentation.
• Develop detailed design specifications incorporating pressure cascades and performance metrics.
• Possess foundational knowledge of turbomachinery, valves, thrust chambers, and injector design principles.
• Leverage various testing, analytical, modeling, and simulation tools to predict and evaluate system behavior.
• Analyze simulation outputs and iteratively improve CAD models considering thermal, structural, and flow aspects.
• Execute design, evaluation, and engineering development tasks for diverse propulsion subsystems.
• Manage CAD models and design ownership for upcoming generation engine inlet lines.
• Formulate comprehensive test plans and analyze outcomes.
• Drive and support engine production processes.
• Develop medium to long-term development schedules for engine subsystems.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Engineering, or related technical discipline.
• At least two years of professional experience working with space propulsion systems.
• Solid understanding of compressible and incompressible fluid flow, thermodynamics, thermochemistry, mechanics, and pressurized components.
• Experience designing liquid rocket engines, particularly feed lines and flexible bellows.
• Familiarity with bipropellant liquid engine testing.
• Proficient in reading and interpreting Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) and knowledge of pressurized systems.
• Strong grasp of physics, engineering materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Experience with RPA and Coolprop software; knowledge of Siemens NX and Rocketisp is advantageous.
• Basic skills in Python programming and using Excel spreadsheets are beneficial.
• Ability to interpret engineering technical drawings.
• Hands-on experience in workshop environments is a plus.
• Fluency in English, both oral and written, as all daily operations are conducted in English.
• Capable of working independently, with a systematic approach and dedication to fast-paced work environments.

Employee Benefits

• International and dynamic startup atmosphere within the New Space sector.
• Flexible working hours to accommodate personal schedules.
• One day per week option for home office for full-time employees.
• Access to EGYM Wellpass for health and fitness activities.
• 30 days of annual vacation plus special leave days.
• Active company culture with regular team and company events.
• Complimentary parking for cars and bicycles.

Additional Information

Join a diverse team of over 300 employees from more than 40 countries, working collaboratively to create one of Europe's most efficient launch systems. This is an excellent opportunity for those eager to grow their responsibility and contribute to space accessibility.

Applications are welcome in German or English.