Rocket Propulsion & Missile Systems Engineer

Job Title: Rocket Propulsion & Missile Systems Engineer
Location: Hybrid (mostly telework), Lorton. VA
Required Clearance: TS/SCI
Salary: Negotiable

Overview:
We are seeking a highly skilled Rocket Propulsion & Missile Systems Engineer to support the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) in assessing and mitigating ballistic missile threats. This role requires a deep technical understanding of missile propulsion systems, warhead deployment mechanisms, and manufacturing processes, as well as the ability to analyze, dismantle, and assess missile components in field environments.  

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with solid and liquid propellant missile systems, missile assembly and manufacturing, and precursor chemical tracking. The ability to immediately advise on missile threats, propulsion commodities, and dismantlement processes is essential.  

Key Responsibilities:  

• Assess and analyze ballistic missile systems, including propulsion, warhead deployment, and guidance mechanisms.  
• Provide immediate technical expertise on missile manufacturing, propulsion chemistry, and warhead energetics.  
• Conduct on-site assessments of missile systems at manufacturing and storage facilities.  
• Identify and track missile propulsion commodities, precursor chemicals, and production equipment.  
• Develop and refine methodologies for missile disablement, dismantlement, and demilitarization.  
• Support missile threat intelligence efforts, collaborating with DTRA, DoD, and intelligence community stakeholders.  
• Evaluate ballistic missile reliability, failure analysis, and risk assessments.  
• Prepare and deliver technical reports, briefings, and strategic recommendations for senior leadership.  
• Stay current on emerging missile technologies and global ballistic missile threats.  
• Support training and knowledge transfer efforts related to missile component identification and tracking.  

Required Qualifications:  

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Ordnance Engineering, or a related field.  
• 10 years of experience in missile propulsion, warhead systems, or missile manufacturing.  
• Hands-on expertise with solid and liquid rocket propellants, missile dismantlement, and propulsion component identification.  
• Knowledge of missile guidance and control systems (e.g., inertial navigation, thrust vector control).  
• Experience with missile reliability testing, demilitarization, or non-proliferation efforts.  
• Familiarity with precursor chemicals and propellant production processes (e.g., ammonium perchlorate, hydrazine, oxidizers).  
• Experience working with DoD, DTRA, Missile Defense Agency (MDA), or defense contractors.  

Preferred Qualifications:  

• Master’s degree in a relevant engineering or technical discipline.  
• Experience with missile technology control and treaty compliance (e.g., MTCR, INF Treaty, New START).  
• Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) qualification or hands-on experience with missile demilitarization.  
• Familiarity with missile manufacturing facilities and supply chain tracking methodologies.  
• Knowledge of arms control agreements related to missile technology and non-proliferation.  

Travel Requirement: 
Some travel is required for this position (roughly 1-2 weeks every quarter).