Lead Propulsion Component Engineer

Job Description Hermeus is a high-speed aircraft manufacturer focused on the rapid design, build, and test of high-Mach and hypersonic aircraft for the national interest. Working directly with the Department of Defense, Hermeus delivers capabilities that will ensure that our nation, and our allies, maintain an asymmetric advantage over any and all potential adversaries.Applying for this role is straight forward Scroll down and click on Apply to be considered for this position.As a Lead Propulsion Component Engineer you will own the development of flight-critical propulsion components—including valves, actuators, and high-performance mechanical systems operating in extreme thermal and pressure environments. This is a player–coach role: you will directly design and deliver hardware while leading a small team of engineers. You will own components from clean-sheet design through test, qualification, and flight, and your hardware will move quickly from concept to real-world operation.  ResponsibilitiesOwn propulsion components (e.g., high-pressure valves, actuation systems, and fluid control hardware) from concept through flight qualificationDesign for extreme environments including high temperature, pressure, and dynamic loadingDrive trade studies across performance, manufacturability, reliability, and testabilityExecute clean-sheet design, analysis, and integration of propulsion hardwareLead development through rapid build–test–iterate cyclesSupport and troubleshoot hardware during ground and flight test campaignsLead and mentor a team of 2–5 engineers, setting technical direction and execution prioritiesReview designs, guide engineering decisions, and ensure high technical standardsAct as the Responsible Engineer for critical flight hardwareWork closely with propulsion, structures, and vehicle teams to integrate components into engine and vehicle systemsDefine system requirements, interfaces, and operational limitsDrive transition from prototype to repeatable, production-ready hardwareDevelop assembly, test, and acceptance strategies for reliable deliveryBasic Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field7+ years of experience developing mechanical or propulsion hardwareDemonstrated experience owning hardware from concept through test or productionStrong fundamentals in fluids, thermodynamics, mechanics, and materialsHands-on experience with design, build, and integration of mechanical systemsPreferred Skills and Qualifications Experience with propulsion systems, high-pressure fluid systems, or aerospace mechanismsExperience designing components such as valves, actuators, turbomachinery-adjacent hardware, or fluid control systemsFamiliarity with high-temperature materials and sealing strategiesStrong knowledge of GD&T, tolerance stack-up, and precision assembliesExperience with rapid development environments (startup or flight hardware programs)Proficiency with CAD tools (NX preferred) and analysis tools (ANSYS or similar)Experience supporting hardware through test campaigns and resolving real-world failures Additional Requirements Willingness to work hands-on in build, integration, and test environmentsAbility to support extended hours during critical test and flight operationsWillingness to travel to test sites as neededMust be eligible to access export-controlled information The salary information provided is a general guideline only. Hermeus takes various factors into account, including, but not limited to, the position's scope and responsibilities, the candidate's professional background, education and training, essential skills, and market and business considerations, when presenting a job offer. Salary is only one part of our total compensation and benefits package. Hermeus offers competitive salary and equity, unlimited PTO policy, paid parental leave, potential for year-end bonuses, and more! 100% employer-paid health care401k & Retirement PlansUnlimited PTOWeekly Paid Office LunchesEnd of Year BonusesFully stocked breakroomsStock Options Paid Parental LeaveU.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a "U.S. person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.62 or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. US persons include U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending. EQUAL OPPORTUNITYHermeus is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions at Hermeus are based solely on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. xhyhwjd Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.