Senior Launch Automation Engineer

I’m working with an innovative U.S. space company developing next-generation launch systems and spacecraft propulsion technologies. They are looking for a Senior Launch Automation Engineer to develop the automation, modelling, and control systems that execute launch operations from propellant loading through liftoff.

This is a highly technical role focused on fluid system modelling, launch automation, and simulation, where your work will directly support the execution of launch operations and the development of future launch vehicles.

Responsibilities

System Modelling

• Develop high-fidelity simulations of cryogenic, pneumatic, hydraulic, and propellant systems.
• Model propellant loading, tank pressurisation, and two-phase flow behaviour.
• Improve model fidelity using ground test and operational data.

Launch Automation

• Develop automation algorithms and control sequences covering propellant conditioning, countdown operations, terminal count, and launch.
• Design robust control logic for automated launch operations.
• Take end-to-end ownership of significant portions of the launch automation system.

Test & Verification

• Develop automated test environments using simulation, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), software-in-the-loop (SIL), and CI/CD pipelines.
• Verify system performance through simulation, testing, and validation activities.
• Support continuous improvement of automation and modelling capabilities.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with propulsion, avionics, GNC, and systems engineering teams to define interfaces and system requirements.
• Support launch operations from mission control by monitoring vehicle fluid systems and responding to operational anomalies.
• Contribute to future launch system architecture and engineering decisions.

Required Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience modelling and controlling physical systems, particularly fluid, thermal, or process systems.
• Advanced degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or a related technical discipline.
• Strong experience using MATLAB, Simulink, and Simscape for physical system modelling.
• Strong understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, process control theory, and control system design.
• Experience with mass and energy balance calculations, two-phase flow, and dynamic system modelling.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills with the ability to mentor other engineers.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, highly collaborative engineering environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience modelling cryogenic fluid systems and propellant loading operations.
• Background in propulsion systems, process engineering, or chemical engineering.
• Experience with launch vehicle ground support equipment or propulsion test facilities.
• Familiarity with Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL), Software-in-the-Loop (SIL), and real-time simulation environments.
• Experience with verification methodologies including unit testing and Monte Carlo simulation.
• Experience working with hazardous fluids, high-pressure gas systems, or propellant handling operations.

Ideal Backgrounds

This role is well suited for engineers with backgrounds in:

• Chemical or Process Engineering with strong physical system modelling experience.
• Controls Engineering focused on modelling and automation of complex physical systems.
• Propulsion or Test Engineering with experience modelling engine or fluid systems.
• Aerospace Engineering with a focus on fluids, thermodynamics, or propulsion.

Compensation

• Base salary: $140,000-$180,000, depending on experience and qualifications.
• Competitive bonus, equity, and comprehensive benefits package.

Additional Information

• Full-time onsite position in the San Francisco Bay Area.
• Opportunity to develop the automation systems that directly execute rocket launch operations and shape the next generation of launch technology.
• Candidates must be eligible to work on projects subject to U.S. export control regulations (ITAR/EAR) and, where applicable, obtain any required government authorisations.

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Sebastian Prins