Propulsion Analyst

Role overview

This opportunity is with a fast-moving launch vehicle company working on next-generation rocket systems from early concept through flight. The environment is still in its initial build phase, so the role is best suited to someone who is comfortable with uncertainty, takes initiative, and enjoys working closely with propulsion, vehicle, test, and systems engineering teams.

What you will do

In this position, you will contribute to propulsion analysis for liquid rocket engines and vehicle-level propulsion architecture. Your work will help shape design choices through modelling, simulation, trade studies, and performance assessment.

Core responsibilities

• Carry out propulsion system analyses for launch vehicles and rocket engine development programs.
• Create and update models covering engine performance, fluid systems, thermodynamics, and propulsion behaviour at the vehicle level.
• Support engineering trade studies involving engine cycle selection, propellant choice, feed system design, pressurisation, cooling, and performance margins.
• Review and interpret test results from component, subsystem, and integrated propulsion testing.
• Collaborate with propulsion design, test, GNC, structures, and systems engineering functions.
• Assist with requirements development, verification planning, and engineering design reviews.
• Spot performance risks, key sensitivities, and areas where the design can be improved.
• Help influence early architecture decisions in a 0-to-1 launch vehicle development setting.

Ideal background

The preferred candidate has experience in propulsion analysis, rocket engine performance, fluid systems, or launch vehicle modelling. A solid grasp of thermodynamics, compressible flow, fluid dynamics, combustion, and core propulsion concepts is important. Familiarity with tools such as Python, MATLAB, Simulink, CEA, REFPROP, EcosimPro, Modelica, NPSS, or comparable software is useful. Exposure to liquid propulsion hardware and systems such as pressurised systems, turbomachinery, feed systems, tanks, valves, or thermal management is valuable. The role also suits someone who is comfortable working from first principles in an environment where processes and tools are still evolving. Experience analysing hot-fire, component, or integrated system test data is especially relevant. An aerospace, mechanical, propulsion, or similar engineering degree is preferred.

Additional qualifications

• Launch vehicle or rocket engine development experience is a plus.
• Previous work in an early-stage startup or fast-paced development environment is beneficial.
• Exposure to LOX/methane, LOX/RP-1, hydrogen, or storable propulsion systems is helpful.
• Knowledge of system safety, verification, requirements, and design review processes is desirable.
• Understanding of vehicle performance, trajectory effects, and mass/performance trade-offs is an advantage.

Working style

This is a practical, hands-on analytical role in a highly iterative engineering setting. The ideal person will have strong technical judgment, a pragmatic mindset, and the confidence to help guide design decisions even when data is incomplete.

Location

Toronto, Ontario, Canada. This is an on-site role.