Propulsion Engineer

Estes Energetics is a leader in energetic materials and solid rocket propulsion, supporting defense, aerospace, and commercial markets. Our team is dedicated to advancing cutting-edge technology while fostering a culture of innovation, safety, and collaboration. As we continue to grow, we are seeking skilled professionals who are eager to contribute to our mission of delivering high-quality, reliable solutions.

Summary

Estes Energetics is searching for a Propulsion Engineer or Associate Propulsion Engineer - depending on experience - to join our solid rocket motor "SRM" design and manufacturing operations in Penrose, Colorado, around 35 minutes south of Colorado Springs. The engineer will primarily be responsible for developing new rocket motors, rocket motor manufacturing processes, energetic systems, designing tooling, and operating associated equipment. In this role, you will work under the guidance of senior engineers and collaborate with cross-functional teams to contribute to the success of our development and production energetics facility in Colorado. This is a great career opportunity for new graduates as well as those with experience in energetics manufacturing.

Essential Functions

• Develop solid rocket motor and energetic production capabilities including the clean sheet design of rocket motor systems, support equipment, quality, and testing.
• Design and manufacture solid rocket propellants, components, and systems.
• Perform analysis of rocket motor ballistics, component and rocket motor designs, to include structural and thermal analysis.
• Perform rocket motor testing, support rocket motor qualification efforts.
• Implement existing technologies and evaluate new technologies for energetics and rocket motor manufacturing.
• Own the design, testing, analysis, and troubleshooting efforts across multiple technology areas.
• Perform other aerospace, chemical, and defense research, development, and production projects as opportunities arise.

Competencies, Experience, and Education

Required

• BS or MS in aerospace, mechanical, chemical, electrical, or other relevant engineering field.
• Hands on skills such as machining, prototype fabrication, carpentry, pipe fitting, electronics, etc.
• Conceptual skills such as mechanical design, CAD, and analytical evaluation.
• Interest in performing both conceptual and hands-on tasks.
• Ability to take initiative and work independently.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Good time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Eligible to obtain and maintain State and Federal explosives licenses including:
• • Be 21 years of age or older.
  • Pass pre-employment drug test.
  • Pass State and Federal background checks.

Desired

• A minimum of 2 years of experience in rocket propulsion development, chemical manufacturing, automation, engineering, or a similar field. Note that internship experience, undergraduate research, university design teams, or personal projects in these areas may be considered as counting towards this goal.
• Eligible to obtain and maintain State and Federal explosives licenses

Work Environment

The work will primarily be in an office and manufacturing environment, including outdoors.

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift 50 pounds.
• Comfortable sitting, standing, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling.
• Exposure to industrial machines, heat, cold, and explosives.
• Frequent movement through a manufacturing environment.
• Use of personal protective equipment appropriate to the work location.

Travel

5-15% Particularly to Minden, Louisiana area.

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position. Working a 9/80 schedule

Supervisory Responsibility

None

Benefits

Estes Energetics maintains a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Health, Vision, and Dental insurance
• Life and disability insurance - 100% paid by company.
• 401(k) retirement plan with 7% company match with vesting at 30 days
• Single, comprehensive paid time off (PTO) policy
• 9 Paid Holidays

Work Authorization

Must be a US citizen or national, a lawful permanent resident, or a protected individual as defined in 8 USC 1324b.

Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Program

Estes Energetics provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.

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