Principal Engineer (Propulsion)

About EDGE:

EDGE is an advanced technology group established to develop disruptive solutions for defense and beyond. Solving real world challenges, it is dedicated to bringing innovative technologies and services to market with greater speed and efficiency. Our people are at the core of our business, inspiring us to imagine a new world of endless possibilities. Leveraging advanced technologies such as autonomous capabilities, cyber-physical systems and directed energy to artificial intelligence, we recognize that changing the fundamentals of the defense industry will take real collaboration and creativity.

This is why we want you to be a part of our initiative Advanced Concepts. Join us today to enable a secure future.

Key Accountabilities

• Lead the liquid and hybrid rocket engine programs.
• Possessing extensive knowledge in rocket propulsion systems, particularly liquid rocket engines and to play a crucial role in the design, development, testing, and integration of advanced propulsion systems.
• Maintaining a strong technical expertise, leadership abilities, and a commitment to innovation and excellence.
• Program Leadership - Lead the technical direction and execution of the liquid rocket engine program, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and mission objectives.
• Design and Development - Oversee the design and development of liquid and hybrid rocket engines, including component and system-level analysis, modeling and simulation. Ensure designs meet performance, reliability and safety requirements.
• Testing and Validation - Plan, execute, and analyze results from engine tests, including static fire tests, component tests, and full-system integration tests. Identify and resolve technical issues that arise during testing.
• Technical Expertise - Serve as the subject matter expert for liquid rocket propulsion systems, providing technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and cross-functional teams.
• Project Management - Develop and manage project schedules, budgets, and resource allocations. Coordinate with other engineering teams, suppliers, and stakeholders to ensure timely and successful project completion.
• Innovation and Improvement - Drive continuous improvement initiatives in propulsion technology, manufacturing processes, and testing methodologies. Stay current with industry trends, emerging technologies and best practices.
• Documentation and Reporting - Prepare and review technical documentation, reports, and presentations. Communicate project status, technical findings, and recommendations to senior management and external stakeholders.
• Regulatory Compliance - Ensure all designs and processes comply with relevant industry standards, regulations, and safety requirements.

Knowledge/Qualification & Experience

• Minimum of 12 years of experience in rocket propulsion engineering, with a focus on liquid and hybrid rocket engines. Proven track record of leading complex engineering projects from concept to completion.
• Master’s or PhD. In Propulsion or other related fields. 
• Proficiency in propulsion system design, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and combustion processes. Experience with CAD software, finite element analysis (FEA), and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor engineering teams, manage projects, and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot complex technical issues and develop innovative solutions.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• High attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable, and safe propulsion systems.
• Experience with cryogenic propellants and high-performance liquid and hybrid rocket engines.
• Knowledge of industry standards and regulations related to rocket propulsion.
• Experience with project management tools and methodologies.
• Active participation in professional organizations and industry conferences.