Job Purpose and Primary Objectives:

Benchmark Space Systems is looking for a highly motivated and experienced Propulsion Components Engineer to join our team. In this role, you would be responsible for design, build, test and product ownership of fluid components including valves, pumps, and others.

This role is on-site at our Pleasanton, CA location.

About Benchmark:

At Benchmark Space Systems , we're pioneering the future of in-space mobility. Our propulsion technologies provide satellites the ability to maneuver, avoid collisions, and maximize mission potential—all while contributing to a safer, more sustainable space environment.
Backed by recent funding and a growing slate of new flight contracts for government and commercial customers, we're building a workplace where bold ideas and passionate people thrive. Engineers, innovators, and problem-solvers at Benchmark tackle some of the toughest challenges in spaceflight, working together to turn cutting-edge concepts into real-world solutions. If you're ready to help shape the next era of spaceflight, there's never been a better time to join Benchmark Space Systems.

Measurements of Success/Primary Job Responsibilities:

At its core, Benchmark is an entrepreneurial, fast paced organization. In this environment, we need all employees to problem solve, not be afraid to ask questions, and be able to work with and help colleagues in different departments and positions by digging in and working on other tasks as needed/assigned depending on business needs. With that said, the primary job responsibilities for this position are:

• Demonstrate full-cycle ownership of a propulsion components product, from requirements definition, design, build and test through flight support.
• Create mechanical designs for combustion components and subassemblies (sealing surfaces, pump features, valve assemblies).
• Perform first order analysis to ensure reliable thermal and fluidic operation (pressure budgets, structural analysis, heat transfer calculations, etc.).
• Write and execute test plans for development and flight qualification campaigns.
• Personally execute on prototype hardware, supporting fabrication and test as needed, to enable rapid iteration.
• Support research and development efforts to continue to advance Benchmark's capabilities.
• Develop subject matter expertise in specific subfields of components design, sealing, materials and fluid physics.
• Work with other disciplines and departments to ensure proper support of the product through its lifecycle and support the needs of internal and external stakeholders.

Education and/or Experience:

• A bachelor's or higher in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or related field of study.
• 2+ years of fluid component design or test.
• U.S. Person Required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

What you bring to the position, or have the ability to swiftly learn and be successful in:

• Knowledge of thermodynamic principles, compressible flow dynamics, and structural design.
• Experience with a commercial 3D design software such as SolidWorks, NX, Creo, or other.
• Proficiency in GD&T and basic manufacturing principles.

What makes you stand out:

• 5+ years of experience with propulsion components design.
• Hands-on experience with high-pressure, high-energy or hazardous fluid systems.
• Experience with spacecraft propulsion, including green or non-green storable propellants.
• Experience with fluid component ownership, including for example thrusters, valves, regulators, pumps or combustion devices.
• Experience with vendor management.
• Experience with aerospace qualification standards.

Benefits:

• Health insurance (100% coverage for individuals, 80% for families).
• Vision and dental insurance.
• Company paid life, AD&D, and disability insurances.
• Employee assistance program.
• 401(k) with employer
• Flexible schedule.
• Unlimited vacation.

Physical Requirements/Working Conditions:
While performing duties of this job, the employee is working predominantly in a development environment and must possess the ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds and occasionally work for long periods of time while standing.

Benchmark Space Systems is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive, innovative environment with the best employees. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please contact us at careers @benchmark-space.com