Propulsion Development Engineer (m/f/d)

Mission Brief

Serve as the technical owner for bearing configuration and life analysis, rotor dynamic stability assessments, dynamic seal performance, and associated development testing. Additionally, you will maintain the top-level turbopump CAD

Your Role in Our Space Mission:

• Develop analytical and empirical models to perform comprehensive rotodynamic analyses, including stability and critical speed mapping (Campbell diagrams). Refine such models based on test data.
• Design and validate bearing configurations in cryogenic applications, drive continuous improvement for rotating system reliability and analyze bearing health through test data and hardware inspections.
• Develop, analyze, and validate dynamic seal concepts (e.g., labyrinth seals, brush seals, face contact seals) for performance, wear, and leakage criteria.
• Lead seal and bearing development test campaigns, including planning, instrumentation definition, execution oversight, and data interpretation.
• Collaborate with test facility responsibles to ensure proper test setup.
• Collaborate with structural mechanics team for turbopump rotor related investigations. ·
• Maintain the top-level turbopump CAD assembly, lead release of manufacturing drawings, and define rotor balancing strategies.
• Work cross-functionally with manufacturing, quality, and external suppliers to ensure system reliability and quality.
• Contribute to design reviews, risk assessments, and technical decision-making forums.

Qualification Checklist

• M.Sc. degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or similar.
• Exceptional knowledge in rotor dynamics and professional experience with Timoshenko finite element rotor dynamic models as well as commercial rotor dynamic analysis software.
• Strong understanding of bearing systems, material behavior, tribology and bearing failure modes, preferably in cryogenic applications.
• Strong knowledge about dynamic seals in rocket engine turbopumps.
• Demonstrated experience in development testing, instrumentation, and data evaluation.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD programs (SolidWorks or Siemens NX preferred) and PDM/PLM systems.
• Effective collaborator in multi-disciplinary and cross-functional teams, organized, detail-oriented, and proactive.
• Fluent in English.

Bonus Skills

• Academic or professional experience related to turbomachinery development.
• Working experience in Simcenter™ Nastran® Rotor Dynamics.
• Familiar with rocket engine cycle interaction of turbopumps.
• Experience with modeling flow physics empirically and analytically.
• Willingness to travel to support engine test campaigns and launch campaigns abroad.
• Ability to adapt to shifting priorities.

Benefits

• Employee Participation Program: Share in our success through our virtual company share program
• 30 days of vacation: Enjoy the days off to relax and recharge
• Company pension plan: Secure your future with our company pension plan, featuring a 20% employer contribution after the probation period
• Subsidised lunch: Stay energised with delicious, subsidised lunches every day
• Public transport ticket: Commute with ease using a fully financed Deutschlandticket
• Sport Clubs membership: Stay fit with our sponsored sports club memberships (EGYM Wellpass)
• Individual learning allowance: Grow your skills with an individual learning budget granted after the probation period
• Childcare allowance: Receive a childcare allowance for your non-school-age children
• And Much More! Discover additional perks and benefits when you join our team

Who we are

We are Isar Aerospace and we are at the forefront of New Space building a modern space business to enable faster, better and cheaper access to space.

Our mission is to help democratise space and use it for good in order to improve life on Earth now and for the future generations.

We are a fast-growing company aiming to provide sustainable and environmentally friendly launch solutions for small and medium-sized satellites and constellations into Low Earth Orbit. The company is privately funded by world-leading technology investors with strong commitment and support and our team is made of driven and talented people with a real passion for space innovation.

We're making rockets in a way that hasn't been done before disrupting a traditional industry. If you are up for the challenge, want to work on cutting-edge projects and be part of a team changing the world for better, come, join us and launch your career!

Want to find out more about us?

Visit www.isaraerospace.com

Disclaimer

Isar Aerospace SE is an equal-opportunity employer committed to fairness and inclusivity. We do not prioritize any specific religion, gender, nationality, or background. Due to security clearance requirements, affiliations with countries listed under § 13 para. 1 no. 17 SÜG may affect the application process. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.