Space Mission & Propulsion SME (DARPA)

About the role

Amentum is seeking a highly experienced Space Mission and Propulsion Subject Matter Expert to support DARPA in the formulation, technical assessment, execution and transition of advanced space technology programs. The role is full-time, based in Arlington, VA, with the option of remote work. It is not limited to propulsion hardware development.

Key responsibilities

• Serve as a primary technical advisor to DARPA Program Managers, leadership, performers, IPTs and external R&D stakeholders.
• Provide technical leadership and subject matter expertise in advanced spacecraft propulsion systems.
• Conduct independent assessments of emerging technologies, architectures and designs, including trade studies and technical risk evaluations.
• Support the formulation, maturation and execution of advanced R&D program concepts.
• Support test and experiment planning, execution and analysis, and translate mission objectives into research and technology development efforts.
• Lead and support technical interchange meetings, design reviews, program briefings and technical documentation.
• Provide programmatic and acquisition support across complex, high-tempo R&D efforts.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics or a related technical discipline with 7+ years of relevant spacecraft, propulsion, mission engineering or related experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in spacecraft propulsion (chemical, electric, nuclear, electrothermal or other advanced types) and substantial experience in spacecraft or space-mission engineering.
• Active U.S. Government TS/SCI clearance required; U.S. citizenship required to maintain it.
• Highly desired: Master's or PhD, and experience with CubeSat, SmallSat or other highly constrained spacecraft architectures.

Required skills

• Strong understanding of spacecraft systems engineering and the interaction of propulsion, structures, thermal management, power, avionics, communications, guidance/navigation/control and mission operations.
• Experience with multidisciplinary trade studies covering propulsion performance, mass, volume, power, propellant loading, maneuvers and mission lifetime.
• Working knowledge of orbital mechanics, astrodynamics and space mission design.
• Ability to integrate inputs from propulsion engineers, spacecraft systems engineers, mission designers, operators and experimentalists.

What we offer

• Compensation of $175K-$195K.
• Health, dental and vision insurance, paid time off and holidays.
• Retirement benefits including 401(k) matching, educational reimbursement and parental leave.
• Employee stock purchase plan, tax-saving options, disability and life insurance, and pet insurance.