Manager of Propulsion Systems

Responsibilities

• Own the spacecraft propulsion systems discipline and its interfaces end-to-end across the engineering organization and product lifecycle.
• Set the technical direction for Varda propulsion systems, driving projects from concept through implementation and flight.
• Lead, grow, and hire the propulsion systems team responsible for system development and operations.
• Drive, define, and map interfaces with partner disciplines including GNC, software, structures, thermal, and avionics.
• Represent propulsion systems in cross-functional forums and execute major spacecraft testing campaigns and in-flight operations.
• Define and uphold high technical standards by applying interdisciplinary engineering principles to the propulsion team.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Aerospace, Mechanical, or a related engineering field.
• 6+ years of hands-on experience in spacecraft or launch vehicle propulsion, including design, build, and test of fluid systems.
• Demonstrated ability to lead people, including experience formally or informally managing, mentoring, or technically leading engineers.
• Deep technical understanding of spacecraft propulsion subsystems, including fluid system components, P&IDs, and propellant handling.
• Proficiency with CAD and product lifecycle management (PLM) software.
• Experience authoring and executing operational procedures for ground test or flight operations.

Preferred Qualifications

• 8+ years in spacecraft or launch vehicle propulsion with breadth across design, analysis, test, and operations.
• Prior formal management experience involving hiring, performance management, and team development.
• Experience with satellite bus propulsion architectures, such as monopropellant/bipropellant or cold gas systems.
• Familiarity with fluid systems performance analysis tools and methods.
• Experience with launch site processing of spaceflight hardware or flight operations.

Benefits

• Equity in a fully funded space startup with significant growth potential.
• 401(k) matching.
• Unlimited PTO.
• Health, vision, and dental insurance.
• Daily lunch and snacks on site, with dinners provided twice a week.
• Maternity and paternity leave.

About the Company

Varda is accelerating the development of commercial space infrastructure, from in-orbit pharmaceutical processing to reliable and economical reentry capsules. Our mission is to expand the economic bounds of humankind by creating the products and infrastructure needed so space can directly benefit life on Earth.