Senior Chemical Propulsion Engineer

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.We'd love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.About the RoleApex is seeking a Senior Chemical Propulsion Engineer to join our closely integrated team, driving the development of our chemical propulsion systems to meet the requirements of our spacecraft bus. You will have the opportunity to approach this from a clean-sheet design, guiding propulsion system architecture, integration, and testing to ensure optimal performance. You will also be the first chemical propulsion engineer at Apex Space, and will help build our chemical propulsion capabilities, team, and infrastructure from the ground up.Responsibilities:Design, build, and test chemical propulsion systemsDesign and build propulsion infrastructure and test facilitiesDesign propulsion system architecture, develop productspecifications, and maintain Technical Performance Metrics (TPMs)Develop qualification and acceptance test plans and support saidtestingCollaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate propulsionsystems with other subsystems (e.g., electrical, thermal, structure).Troubleshoot anomalies that arise during manufacturing, leadinvestigation efforts, and ensure design for manufacturability (DFM)approaches are followed during all stages of developmentDirectly interface with customer/supplier relationships, conductanalyses, and provide support (either virtual or onsite) as necessary.Contribute to proposals and business development efforts as needed.Requirements:U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data.Bachelor's degree in mechanical, propulsion, or other aerospace-related engineering discipline.8+ years of propulsion design and test experienceExperience with mono and bi-propellant chemical propulsion systemsExperience with handling and testing pressurized systemsDemonstrated history of designing fluidic systems, fluid systeminstrumentation, and control components (i.e. tanks, regulators, pressure transducers, thermocouples, solenoid valves, etc.)Experience with CAD software (NX, SolidWorks)Working knowledge for manufacturing in a clean environment and following AS9100 protocols Preferred Qualifications:Master's or Ph.D in mechanical, propulsion, or other aerospace-related engineering disciplineExperience operating leak, burst, proof test facilitiesExperience leading an hot-fire test campaigns (power and fluid delivery systems for ground test, data acquisition systems, thrust stands, and plume diagnostics).Experience with chemical propulsion operations in space Why Join Apex?Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup backed by $200M in Series D funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.What We Offer For Full-time Employees:Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you createBest-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no costComprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidaysCompetitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travelDaily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the dayVibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your familyYour dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive selfWorld-class Playa Vista office with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and lifeReal impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting differenceReady to join a team where your contributions matter and your future is bright? Let's build something extraordinary together.Equal Opportunity Employer