Staff Engineer • Senior

Who you are

You have a strong background in mechanical engineering with at least 5 years of experience in engine design and analysis — you've successfully led projects from concept through production, ensuring high performance and manufacturability. Your expertise in CAD software, particularly AutoCAD, allows you to create detailed designs and specifications that meet rigorous standards.

You are proficient in programming languages such as C and C++ — your coding skills enable you to develop simulations and models that predict engine performance under various conditions. Your experience with embedded Linux systems gives you an edge in integrating software with hardware components.

Your familiarity with MATLAB allows you to perform complex analyses and optimizations — you can leverage this tool to validate designs and improve engine efficiency. You understand the importance of testing and validation, having participated in the qualification process for aerospace components.

You thrive in collaborative environments — your ability to communicate effectively with cross-functional teams, including propulsion, manufacturing, and quality assurance, ensures that projects progress smoothly. You are comfortable taking ownership of your work and are driven by the impact your designs have on the success of the Terran R vehicle.

Desirable

Experience with rocket propulsion systems is a plus — you have a keen interest in aerospace applications and understand the unique challenges associated with designing engines for space travel. Familiarity with regulatory requirements and industry standards will help you navigate the complexities of aerospace engineering.

What you'll do

As a Staff Engine Design Engineer at Relativity, you will lead the design and analysis of engine systems for the Terran R rocket — your role will involve overseeing the entire lifecycle of engine components, from initial design through production and qualification. You will collaborate closely with the propulsion team to develop innovative solutions that meet customer payload requirements.

You will be responsible for creating detailed design documents and specifications — your designs will need to balance performance, manufacturability, and cost-effectiveness. You will also conduct simulations and analyses to validate your designs, ensuring they meet the necessary performance criteria.

Your role will require you to participate in testing and validation processes — you will work with the manufacturing team to ensure that designs are implemented correctly and that any issues are addressed promptly. You will also be involved in troubleshooting and resolving any technical challenges that arise during production.

You will mentor junior engineers and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement — your insights and experience will help shape the team's approach to design and analysis, fostering an environment where innovation thrives. You will have the opportunity to influence the direction of engine development and contribute to the overall success of the Terran R program.

What we offer

Relativity offers a competitive salary range of $176,000 to $225,500 USD, reflecting the importance of this role in our mission to revolutionize space travel. You will be part of a dynamic team that values creativity and technical rigor, where your contributions will have a direct impact on the future of aerospace technology. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every requirement — we believe diverse teams build better products and welcome applicants from all backgrounds.