Propulsion Development Engineer presso Benchmark Space Systems

Job Purpose and Primary Objectives:

Benchmark Space Systems is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Propulsion Development Engineer to join our Propulsion Development team. This role will be responsible for full-cycle product ownership of new and existing spacecraft engines, to include designing, building and testing of systems and components. This role works closely with Engineering, Production, and Test teams.

This role is on-site at our Pleasanton, California location.

About Benchmark:

At Benchmark Space Systems, we’re pioneering the future of in-space mobility. Our propulsion technologies provide satellites the ability to maneuver, avoid collisions, and maximize mission potential—all while contributing to a safer, more sustainable space environment.
Backed by recent funding and a growing slate of new flight contracts for government and commercial customers, we’re building a workplace where bold ideas and passionate people thrive. Engineers, innovators, and problem-solvers at Benchmark tackle some of the toughest challenges in spaceflight, working together to turn cutting-edge concepts into real-world solutions. If you're ready to help shape the next era of spaceflight, there's never been a better time to join Benchmark Space Systems.

Measurements of Success/Primary Job Responsibilities:

At its core, Benchmark is an entrepreneurial, fast paced organization. In this environment, we need all employees to problem solve, not be afraid to ask questions, and be able to work with and help colleagues in different departments and positions by digging in and working on other tasks as needed/assigned depending on business needs. With that said, there are primary job responsibilities and measurements of success for this position, which are:

• Demonstrate full-cycle ownership of a propulsion product, from requirements definition through design, building and testing of an engine system.
• Lead the efforts of mechanical designers, analysts, test engineers, and other personnel through product realization.
• Create mechanical designs for combustion components, subassemblies, and full engine assemblies and provide oversight of the designs of others.
• Perform first order analysis to ensure reliable thermal and fluidic operation (pressure budgets, structural analysis, heat transfer calculations, etc.).
• Create analysis tools or standards to accelerate other’s work.

• Lead execution on development and qualification test campaigns, including coordinating the work of others, writing test plans, synthesizing conclusions, and identifying forwards opportunities for further testing.
• Execute on prototype hardware, supporting fabrication and testing as needed, to enable rapid iteration.
• Identify technology opportunities for R&D and contribute to team efforts in turning concepts into executed solutions.
• Develop subject matter expertise in specific subfields of engine design to proactively resolve design questions and develop forwards architecture.
• Mentor and support other engineers in developing their propulsion design skills.
• Serving as a resource on propulsion design to non-propulsion engineers and providing leadership to team members as needed.
• Lead external customer relations on a technical basis with respect to owned products, with responsibility for hardware outcomes.
• At all times, maintain Benchmark’s outstanding reputation for operating at the highest levels of honesty, integrity, accountability, and transparency.

Education and/or Experience:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or related field.
• 3+ years of experience with rocket engine or combustion devices design.
• U.S. Person required

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

What you bring to the position, or have the ability to swiftly learn and be successful in:

• Knowledge of thermodynamic principles, compressible flow dynamics, and structural design.
• Experience with commercial 3D design software such as SolidWorks, NX, Creo, or others.
• Proficiency in GD&T and basic manufacturing principles.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work in an entrepreneurial, fast-paced, and matrixed cross-functional environment.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies and processes.

What makes you stand out:

• 5+ years of experience with rocket engine design.
• Experience with leadership and mentorship, especially in development.
• Hands-on experience with high-pressure, high-energy or hazardous fluid systems.
• Experience with spacecraft propulsion, including green or non-green storable propellants.
• Advanced thermal or fluid analysis experience (e.g. ANSYS, Thermal Desktop).
• Experience with fluid component ownership, including for example thrusters, valves, regulators, pumps or combustion devices.

Benefits:

• Health insurance (100% coverage for individuals, 80% for families).
• Vision and dental insurance.
• Company paid life, AD&D and disability insurances.
• Employee assistance program.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Flexible schedule.
• Unlimited vacation.

Physical Requirements/Working Conditions:
While performing duties of this job, the employee is working predominantly in a development environment and must possess the ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds and occasionally work for long periods of time while standing.

Benchmark Space Systems is an equalopportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive, innovativeenvironment with the best employees. We are committed to equal employmentopportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin,sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, genderidentity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need thatrequires accommodation, please contact us at careers @benchmark-space.com