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Senior/Staff Propulsion Engineer

Mach is a defense manufacturing company that builds munitions to help the United States win future wars. Backed by $85M in funding from top venture firms, our small lean team ideates, designs, manufactures, and sells cutting-edge weapons to the Department of Defense.

About Mach Propulsion
Mach Propulsion is redefining the small turbine engine—designing for high-rate production, scalability, modularity, and adaptability to help the United States maintain its edge in a rapidly evolving defense landscape. This is a chance to shape a new kind of propulsion company, one built around modern, automated manufacturing to deliver capable engines at meaningful volumes.

We are seeking a Staff/Sr. Propulsion Engineer to support the design and development of advanced small engine systems for the next generation of airborne defense platforms. In this role, you will collaborate with a multidisciplinary engineering team to create high-performance, manufacturable systems that meet demanding mission requirements. As a Senior/Staff Propulsion Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in advancing our propulsion technology, ensuring our engines deliver the reliability, efficiency, and scalability needed to maintain a strategic edge in modern warfare.

Responsibilities

  • Lead strategy on resolving complex systems-level challenges and component interdependencies.

  • Develop engine parts, systems, and test equipment. Architect the DFM/DFA for high-volume production utilizing advanced manufacturing practices.

  • Perform structural and geometric analysis to ensure minimum part weight/volume while maintaining sufficient design margin, manufacturing capability, and ease of assembly.

  • Assist in assembly, integration, and testing activities for first articles and first flight assets.

  • Research emerging materials and manufacturing processes to continuously improve system performance, throughput, and cost.

  • Oversee and coach team members to assure the quality of work is met and proper documentation of technical data is generated consistent with engineering best practices.

  • Work with suppliers to procure hardware and resolve producibility and quality issues.

Basic Qualifications

  • 5+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, with a focus on engine systems, drivetrain, or complex mechanical systems.

  • Strong expertise in CAD tools (e.g., NX, SolidWorks) and experience with engineering analysis tools (e.g., FEA, CFD).

  • Strong understanding of structural design principles, materials science, and manufacturing processes.

  • Bachelor’s degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.

  • Hands-on experience with prototyping, testing, and iteration of mechanical systems.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with turbine engine design or propulsion systems for aerospace or defense applications.

  • Familiarity with design for manufacturability (DFM) and design for assembly (DFA) in high-volume production environments.

  • Proficiency in advanced manufacturing techniques, such as additive manufacturing or automated assembly.

  • Background in optimizing mechanical systems for weight, performance, and cost in resource-constrained settings.

  • Demonstrated ability to mentor junior engineers and collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams.

  • Knowledge of defense industry standards for quality, reliability, and producibility.

Benefits at Mach Industries
At Mach Industries, we are committed to supporting the well-being and success of our team members. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to offer financial security and foster personal and professional growth. Here’s an overview of the benefits available to full-time employees:

Competitive Compensation Package
The salary range for this position is an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including experience, education, skills, and business considerations. The actual salary offered may vary. In addition to a competitive base salary, employees may receive equity grants, which are considered part of Mach Industries’ total compensation package.

Healthcare & Wellness Benefits

  • Platinum Healthcare Coverage: For U.S. employees, Mach Industries provides platinum-level coverage for medical, dental, and vision insurance at no cost to the employee, with 90% of coverage for dependents.

Generous Time Off & Leave Policies

  • Holiday Calendar: We offer a generous holiday schedule including 13 holidays.

  • Holiday Shutdown: An additional 10 days off at the end of December.

  • Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO) Policies

Company-Provided Meals

  • Daily Meals & Snacks: Daily catered lunches, fully stocked kitchens with snacks, drinks, a coffee bar, and more!

Retirement & Financial Security

  • 401(k) Plan (U.S. Only): We offer a company 401k with a 5% match to provide for your financial future.

Relocation Assistance
We offer relocation support for eligible positions, ensuring a smooth transition for team members moving for work.

At Mach Industries, we are committed to offering a comprehensive benefits package that supports your health, financial security, and personal growth. We want to ensure you have the tools and resources you need to thrive both inside and outside of work.

Why Mach Industries?
At Mach Industries, we are pioneering the future of defense through scalable, decentralized technologies. You’ll be part of a small, dynamic team tackling some of the hardest engineering problems in modern warfare. Your work will directly contribute to building propulsion systems that power the next generation of autonomous platforms, ensuring global stability and preparedness through innovative, manufacturable designs.

Join us in shaping the future of warfare and securing the American way of life.

Disclosures

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).  Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.

Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!

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What You Should Know About Senior/Staff Propulsion Engineer, Mach Industries

Mach Industries is on the lookout for a passionate Senior/Staff Propulsion Engineer to join our innovative team in Huntington Beach. At Mach, we’re redefining the landscape of defense manufacturing by designing cutting-edge propulsion systems for the next generation of airborne defense platforms. As a Senior/Staff Propulsion Engineer, you'll play a crucial role in spearheading the development and design of advanced small engine systems. Your expertise will ensure that our engines deliver the reliability and performance needed in today’s rapidly changing defense environment. You will be collaborating with a talented multidisciplinary engineering team, leading strategies to tackle complex systems-level challenges, maintaining intricate component interdependencies, and shaping engine parts designed for high-volume production. We value creativity and ingenuity, so you will have ample room to research emerging materials and manufacturing processes to boost system performance while optimizing costs. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys mentoring others, as you'll oversee and coach team members while working closely with suppliers to address hardware procurement and quality issues. At Mach, you are not just taking a job but joining a mission to help the United States maintain its tactical edge with scalable and adaptable propulsion technologies. If you’re excited about transforming the future of defense technologies with us, we’d love to hear from you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Senior/Staff Propulsion Engineer Role at Mach Industries
What are the primary responsibilities of a Senior/Staff Propulsion Engineer at Mach Industries?

As a Senior/Staff Propulsion Engineer at Mach Industries, your primary responsibilities include leading the design and development of advanced small engine systems, resolving complex systems-level challenges, developing engine parts and test equipment, and performing structural and geometric analysis. You will also assist in the assembly and testing of first-flight assets while mentoring junior engineers and collaborating with suppliers to resolve technical issues.

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What qualifications are required for the Senior/Staff Propulsion Engineer position at Mach Industries?

To qualify for the Senior/Staff Propulsion Engineer position at Mach Industries, candidates must have at least 5 years of experience in mechanical engineering with a strong focus on engine systems or complex mechanical systems. A Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field is required, along with expertise in CAD tools and engineering analysis tools.

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What is Mach Industries' approach to innovation in propulsion systems?

Mach Industries takes an innovative approach to propulsion systems by emphasizing high-rate production, scalability, and modularity. We invest in advanced manufacturing practices, focusing on continuous improvement through research and emerging materials to optimize performance, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, essential for modern warfare.

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What benefits are available to Senior/Staff Propulsion Engineers at Mach Industries?

Senior/Staff Propulsion Engineers at Mach Industries enjoy a competitive compensation package, platinum-level healthcare coverage, generous time off policies, 401(k) plans with a company match, and daily catered meals. We also offer relocation assistance to ensure a smooth transition and a supportive work environment promoting personal and professional growth.

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How does Mach Industries support career development for a Senior/Staff Propulsion Engineer?

At Mach Industries, we are committed to supporting the career development of our Senior/Staff Propulsion Engineers through mentoring opportunities, professional training, and a collaborative work environment. Our focus on innovation means our engineers are continuously learning, adapting, and growing in their careers as they tackle challenging engineering problems.

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Common Interview Questions for Senior/Staff Propulsion Engineer
Can you describe your experience with engine systems and your role in their design and development?

When answering this question, focus on specific projects you’ve worked on involving engine systems. Highlight your involvement in the design process, any challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. Discuss the technologies or methods you used and any successful outcomes from your contributions.

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What CAD tools have you used, and how proficient are you with them?

Be honest about the CAD tools you've used, such as NX or SolidWorks. Provide examples of how you utilized these tools in your previous projects, including any specific features or functions that helped enhance your design work. This shows your capability and readiness for the technical expectations at Mach Industries.

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How do you approach problem-solving in complex mechanical systems?

Demonstrate your analytical thinking by sharing your structured approach to problem-solving. Describe a specific instance where you identified a complex issue, the steps you took to analyze the problem, and the successful resolution. This illustrates your capability to tackle challenges effectively.

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What has been your experience with prototyping and testing engine systems?

Discuss your hands-on experience with prototyping and the steps involved in the testing process for engine systems. Highlight what you learned from these experiences and how it shaped your understanding of design requirements and production processes.

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Can you give an example of how you've mentored junior engineers?

Share a specific example of when you guided or mentored a junior engineer. Describe the context, your mentoring strategies, and any positive outcomes that resulted, such as improved project performance or skill development. This shows your leadership and teamwork abilities.

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What advanced manufacturing techniques are you familiar with?

List advanced manufacturing techniques such as additive manufacturing or automated assembly that you're knowledgeable about. Provide examples of how you've applied these techniques in your previous positions and their benefits to production processes.

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How do you ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations?

Explain your understanding of industry standards related to quality, reliability, and producibility. Share methods you use to stay updated with regulations and how you implement compliance in your designs and processes, demonstrating your commitment to high standards.

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How do you manage the balance between performance and cost when designing propulsion systems?

Describe your approach to balancing performance and cost, emphasizing your experience in resource-constrained environments. Provide a specific example where you made design decisions that achieved high performance while remaining cost-effective.

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What excites you about working in the defense manufacturing sector?

Share your personal motivations and interests in the defense manufacturing sector, particularly at Mach Industries. Highlight how you align with the mission of contributing to national security and innovation in defense technologies, demonstrating your passion and commitment.

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How do you prioritize multiple engineering projects simultaneously?

Discuss your prioritization techniques when juggling multiple projects, such as utilizing project management tools, setting clear deadlines, and collaborating with your team. Provide examples of how you successfully managed competing priorities in past roles.

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DATE POSTED
March 28, 2025

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