Senior Propulsion Engineer - Hardware and Bus Systems

<div class="content-intro"><h2><span data-contrast="none">About Varda</span></h2>
<p>Low Earth orbit is open for business. Varda is accelerating the development of commercial space infrastructure, from in-orbit pharmaceutical processing to reliable and economical reentry capsules. <strong>Varda’s W-Series vehicles are built, designed, and operated by Varda in-house, including the pharmaceutical processing payloads, the capsules, the C-PICA heat shields, and the satellite buses.</strong></p>
<p>From life-saving pharmaceuticals to more powerful fiber optics, there is a world of products used on Earth today that can only be manufactured in space. Varda is accelerating innovation in the orbital economy by creating both the products and infrastructure needed so space can directly benefit life on Earth. Our mission is to expand the economic bounds of humankind.  </p>
<p>Our team is uniquely suited to accomplishing this goal, with leadership and staff comprised of veterans from SpaceX, Blue Origin, major pharmaceutical companies and Silicon Valley. Varda was founded in January 2021 by Will Bruey and Delian Asparouhov with significant backing from world class investors including Khosla Ventures, Lux Capital, Founders Fund, Caffeinated Capital, General Catalyst, and Also Capital.  </p>
<p>Varda is headquartered in El Segundo, California, where we have offices and a production facility where our vehicles, equipment, and materials are built, integrated, and tested. Varda also has offices in Washington, DC and Huntsville, AL. </p>
<p>Join Varda, and work to create a bustling in-space ecosystem.</p></div><p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal"><strong>About This Role</strong></p>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">As the <strong>Senior Propulsion Engineer – Hardware & Bus Systems</strong>, you will serve as the technical authority for spacecraft propulsion subsystems integrated within the satellite bus, the foundational architecture that every mission depends on. You'll be setting the strategy, defining the standards and building the propulsion infrastructure that gets spacecraft off the ground and into orbit.</p>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">You'll own the full lifecycle of propulsion hardware and bus-integrated fluid systems, from architecture and design through build, test, anomaly resolution and live flight operations. You'll lead propellant loading and engine test campaigns across multiple sites, define our operational approach as we scale, and serve as the technical north star for the broader propulsion team.</p>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal"><strong>Responsibilities</strong></p>
<ul class="[li_&]:mb-0 [li_&]:mt-1 [li_&]:gap-1 [&:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [&:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3">
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Own it end-to-end: architecture, schematics, mechanical design, build, and operations for propulsion hardware and bus-integrated fluid systems across spacecraft programs, including satellite bus GSE, engine development test stands, and component acceptance test hardware</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Lead propellant loading campaigns and engine test operations across multiple sites, setting the standard for safety, efficiency, and reliability, including console operations for development and flight engines</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Define propellant handling and combustion system processes from the ground up, ensuring every commodity and subsystem meets flight specifications</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Drive the propulsion hardware roadmap: identify capability gaps, lead combustion stability and subscale component test programs, and help shape the team as we grow</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Set the standard: author and maintain technical standards, work instructions, test and fill procedures and engineering documentation, including pass/fail criteria which the entire propulsion organization will build on</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Grow the next generation: mentor and develop junior and mid-level engineers; serve as the technical reviewer they rely on</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Represent propulsion hardware in cross-functional design reviews, launch site coordination, and partner discussions</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Serve as the final escalation point when anomalies get complex, lead investigations and drive them to resolution across organizational boundaries</li>
</ul>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal"><strong>Basic Qualifications</strong></p>
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<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline; equivalent professional experience considered (typically 3–6+ years)</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">3+ years of hands-on experience in propulsion fluid system definition, design, build, and test for spacecraft or launch vehicles</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Deep working knowledge of fluid system hardware: pressurized components, tubing, fittings, seals, valves, and instrumentation</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Demonstrated experience authoring and executing operational procedures for ground test or flight campaigns, including console operations</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Proficiency in reading and authoring Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs)</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Hands-on experience with fluid system manufacturing processes, installation methods, and CNC-based tooling</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Familiarity with 91-710 or equivalent range safety requirements</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Proven record of technical ownership, driving anomaly investigations and problems to resolution across organizational boundaries</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Proficiency with CAD tools and PLM software</li>
</ul>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal"><strong>Preferred Skills and Experience</strong></p>
<ul class="[li_&]:mb-0 [li_&]:mt-1 [li_&]:gap-1 [&:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [&:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3">
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">6+ years of propulsion fluid systems experience on spacecraft or launch vehicles, including high-performance engines such as LOX-rich staged combustion cycles</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Experience with cryogenic, hypergolic, or other spacecraft-grade propellants, including combustion stability analysis and subscale component test programs</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Test or launch site operations experience, including coordination with range safety and launch site personnel; experience as a certified Test Responsible Engineer is a strong plus</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Prior experience leading a technical team or sub-discipline, formally or informally, across engine integration, first-stage support, or bus-level propulsion campaigns</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Track record of developing and enforcing engineering standards or design guidelines, including regenerative cooling system analysis, 1D fluid modeling, and CFD,  within a propulsion organization</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Exceptional technical communication skills, precision and clarity in work instructions, engineering specifications, assembly procedures, and engineering memos</li>
</ul>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal"><strong>Pay Range</strong></p>
<ul class="[li_&]:mb-0 [li_&]:mt-1 [li_&]:gap-1 [&:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [&:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3">
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Salary Range: Senior: $140,333 – $179,314/per year</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">This role is on-site in El Segundo, CA</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Leveling and base salary is determined by job-related skills, education level, experience level, and job performance</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">You will be eligible for incentives in the form of stock options and/or long-term cash awards</li>
</ul><div class="content-conclusion"><div>
<h2><span data-contrast="auto">Benefits</span></h2>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Varda offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support health, financial well‑being, and a high‑quality workplace experience. Below is an overview of what full‑time employees receive (at this time, interns receive a subset of benefits):</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Health & Wellness</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span></p>
<ul>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">Flexible PTO policy + 12 paid holidays</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335559738":0,"335559739":0}"> </span></li>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">100% company-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans for employees and dependents with FSA and employer-matched HSA options</span></li>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">Voluntary accident, hospital, critical illness, and pet insurance</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335559738":0,"335559739":0}"> </span></li>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">$120/month wellness reimbursement for gym and fitness expenses</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335559738":0,"335559739":0}"> </span></li>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">12 weeks of parental leave (with supplemental disability leave for CA mothers)</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335551550":1,"335551620":1,"335559685":720,"335559737":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":279,"335559991":360}"> </span></li>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">Family building, pregnancy, parenting and menopause benefits via Maven Clinic</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335551550":1,"335551620":1,"335559685":720,"335559737":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":279,"335559991":360}"> </span></li>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">Sponsored One Medical memberships for employees and their dependents</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335551550":1,"335551620":1,"335559685":720,"335559737":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":279,"335559991":360}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Financial & Retirement</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span></p>
<ul>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">Substantial incentive equity in a fully funded space start-up</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335559738":0,"335559739":0}"> </span></li>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">401(k) retirement plan with 6% employer match (immediately vested)</span></li>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">$20/pay period cell phone reimbursement</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335559738":0,"335559739":0}"> </span></li>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">Relocation support for new hires, if needed</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335559738":0,"335559739":0}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Workplace Experience & Perks</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335559738":240,"335559739":240}"> </span></p>
<ul>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">Fully stocked kitchen with lunch provided daily and dinner provided twice weekly</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335551550":1,"335551620":1,"335559685":720,"335559737":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":279,"335559991":360}"> </span></li>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">Company and team-bonding events, happy hours and mission-success celebrations</span></li>
<li><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"335559738":0,"335559739":0}">Complimentary EV charging</span></li>
</ul>
<p> </p>
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<h2>ITAR Requirements</h2>
<p>Varda, like all employers, must ensure that its employees working in the United States are lawfully authorized to work in the U.S. Additionally, our employees are exposed to and have access to certain export-controlled items. Because our employees are provided access to export-controlled items, our policy is to only hire “U.S. persons” who are permitted to have access to our technology without an export license.<br><br>“US person” means: U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident, or protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) (i.e., individual admitted to the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum).</p>
<p> </p>
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<h2><span data-contrast="none">E-Verify Statement</span></h2>
<p><span data-contrast="none">Varda Space Industries, Inc. participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security E-Verify program. The E-Verify program is an Internet-based employment eligibility verification system operated by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Learn more about the <a href="https://nam10.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.e-verify.gov%2Femployees%2Fe-verify-overview&data=05%7C01%7Ctyree%40varda.com%7C22201ef47a8142f3b0a708dbd0f6e47b%7C1b36161382e94a8784f78a213228882f%7C0%7C0%7C638333531041144158%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=3toCq47V%2FiQtV%2B5rEKFG0tfg0yXkNTv4SuLE2Xy40Rk%3D&reserved=0" data-auth="Verified" data-linkindex="5">E-Verify</a> program.</span></p>
<p>E-Verify Notice                                                               Right To Work Notice</p>
<p><a>Read more</a>                                                                             <a>Read more</a></p>
<p>Varda Space Industries is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, martial status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.</p>
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