Chemical Propulsion Engineer

About this role

Apex Space seeks a Chemical Propulsion Engineer to lead the design, development, and testing of chemical propulsion systems for commercial satellite buses. As one of the first in this role, you'll build propulsion capabilities from the ground up while collaborating across teams to deliver flight-ready spacecraft systems.

What you'll do

• Design, build, and test chemical propulsion systems and associated test facilities
• Define propulsion architecture, specifications, and technical performance metrics
• Develop and execute qualification and acceptance test plans
• Integrate propulsion subsystems with electrical, thermal, and structural components
• Investigate manufacturing anomalies and ensure design-for-manufacturability compliance
• Support customer and supplier relationships through technical analysis and onsite support

What they're looking for

• Chemical propulsion systems design and testing
• Mono and bi-propellant propulsion experience
• Pressurized system handling and testing
• Fluidic systems and component design (tanks, regulators, valves, transducers)
• CAD software (NX, SolidWorks)
• AS9100 clean room manufacturing protocols
• Hot-fire test campaign experience (preferred)
• System integration and cross-functional collaboration

Benefits

• Equity ownership in well-funded startup ($500M+ raised)
• 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage for employee and dependents
• 15+ days vacation annually, growing to 20+ days, plus 10 paid holidays
• 401(k) matching: 100% on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
• 8 weeks paid parental leave
• $100,000 life insurance at no cost