Propulsion Engineer (Build)

About the company

Portal Space Systems develops solar thermal propulsion systems for high-speed in-space maneuvering.

About this role

<div class="content-intro"><h3>About Portal</h3> <p>Portal Space Systems is on a mission to expand humanity’s freedom of movement in space. We’re building the spacecraft that makes that mission possible. From our Bothell, WA headquarters, we design vehicles with the maneuverability, resilience, and adaptability needed for the next era of orbital operations. Every system we build is in service of a simple idea: space should be more accessible, responsive, and capable. Joining Portal means stepping into a team that believes in bold engineering, fast iteration, and the power of small groups to change what’s possible. If you want your work to directly shape the future of in-space mobility, join us.</p></div><h3>About the Role</h3> <p>We are seeking a Propulsion Engineer (Build) to own development, build, test, and delivery of propulsion hardware across Portal’s vehicle family and ground capabilities. This engineer will work across flight propellant storage, propellant feed systems, and thrusters along with Propulsion GSE - partnering closely with suppliers and internal teams to turn concepts into flight-ready hardware. The role spans development, build, test, qualification, and launch-provider-ready delivery across disciplines of mechanical design, avionics, manufacturing, and environmental engineering. Join us in building elegant, scalable propulsion systems that bring high-mobility spaceflight to orbit!</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Responsibilities</h3> <ul type="disc"> <li>Develop and deliver qualified propellant feed systems by working closely with peer Propulsion Engineers and the broader engineering team</li> <li>Own the development, sourcing, and qualification of lightweight propellant storage hardware in partnership with internal fluids teams and external suppliers</li> <li>Lead technical engagements with internal engineers and external suppliers to bring developing hardware through to delivery and qualification&nbsp;</li> <li>Build internal propulsion qualification campaigns and test infrastructure to evaluate propulsion performance</li> <li>Rapidly prototype next-generation concepts to enable scalable vehicle architectures, including in-space propellant management and refueling</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Basic Qualifications</h3> <ul type="disc"> <li>4+ years of experience developing, integrating, or testing propulsion, fluid, or pressure systems for aerospace or other high-reliability hardware platform</li> <li>Experience supporting hardware qualification, integration, or development testing for aerospace or similar systems</li> <li>Direct experience working with suppliers or external partners to test and deliver technical hardware components</li> <li>Experience in propellant storage, fluid handling, or pressure system hardware such as tanks, valves, and regulators in development of spacecraft or similar systems</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Preferred Skills &amp; Experience</h3> <ul type="disc"> <li>Systems-level understanding of spacecraft propulsion systems and their impact on vehicle design and operations</li> <li>Ability to plan and execute propulsion hardware qualification campaigns aligned with launch provider or aerospace standards (SMC-S-016, AIAA, or similar)</li> <li>Ability to design and interpret propulsion tests, including fluid, pressure, and thermal performance evaluations</li> <li>Strong troubleshooting and root-cause analysis skills across fluid, pressure, and electromechanical systems</li> <li>Ability to communicate technical concepts clearly across engineering disciplines and external suppliers</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p><div class="content-conclusion"><div class="cms-body__content-block"> <h3 class="h2">ITAR Statement</h3> <div class="cms-static-wrapper"> <div class="p-m"> <p>This position may involve access to technical data and defense-related materials controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). <strong>Eligibility to access ITAR-controlled items requires that candidates be U.S. persons</strong>, which includes U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and other protected individuals as defined by U.S. law. Employment is contingent upon verification of ITAR eligibility and, where applicable, obtaining any required export authorization or license.</p> </div> <div class="p-m">&nbsp;</div> </div> </div> <div class="cms-body__content-block"> <h3 class="h2">Equal Opportunity Statement</h3> <div class="cms-static-wrapper"> <div class="p-m"> <p>All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.</p> </div> </div> </div></div>