Director, Advanced Propulsion Engineering (Space Systems)
About the Role
Monarch Space Systems seeks a Director of Advanced Propulsion Engineering to lead technical development of next-generation propulsion systems within the Quantum Propulsion Research Laboratory (QPRL) and the broader Programs Division. The Director will serve as the institution's principal technical authority for propulsion systems engineering — spanning nuclear electric, chemical, and quantum-optimized propulsion concepts — while building and leading an engineering team aligned with the organization's long-horizon aerospace mission. Primary location is Cleveland, Ohio.
Responsibilities
- Lead propulsion systems engineering and research programs within QPRL and the Programs Division
- Serve as principal technical authority for advanced propulsion concepts including nuclear electric propulsion (NEP), high-efficiency chemical systems, and emerging quantum-optimized approaches
- Direct design, analysis, modeling, and experimental planning activities across aerospace propulsion research initiatives
- Build and lead a disciplined team of propulsion engineers, researchers, and technical contributors
- Coordinate propulsion system integration with spacecraft systems, EMAMF materials capabilities, and QPRL computational resources
- Support technology transition evaluations, IP strategy, and technology readiness assessments in coordination with Legal Division
- Lead propulsion-related capture support including technical volume authorship and past performance framing for space systems programs
- Oversee compliance with ITAR/EAR and applicable nuclear regulatory requirements in propulsion research activities
- Represent propulsion technical authority in customer briefings, advisory council reviews, and prime contractor engagements
Ideal Candidate Profile
- Ph.D. or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, or closely related field
- 12+ years of experience in advanced propulsion research or development, with at least 5 years in a leadership role
- Deep technical expertise in one or more of: electric propulsion, nuclear thermal/electric propulsion, chemical propulsion systems
- Experience with propulsion modeling, performance analysis, and experimental test planning for aerospace systems
- U.S. citizenship required; ability to obtain and maintain security clearance required
The qualifications above describe the ideal candidate profile for this position — not an inflexible checklist. Monarch Space Systems evaluates the whole of a candidate's experience, judgment, and mission alignment, and welcomes a conversation with individuals of exceptional ability whose backgrounds differ from the profile in some respects. If you believe you can contribute at the level this role demands, we encourage you to apply or to initiate a confidential inquiry through the Careers Portal. Certain criteria — including U.S. citizenship and export-control (ITAR/EAR) eligibility, where stated — are legal mandates and cannot be waived.
This role references security clearance eligibility. Understand what that means, and how clearance and federal site badging work.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with nuclear electric propulsion or nuclear thermal propulsion programs (NASA, DoE, or DoD-aligned)
- Publication record in advanced propulsion research
- Familiarity with NRC, DOE, and NASA regulatory frameworks for nuclear propulsion
- Experience supporting federal capture processes as a technical subject matter expert for space systems programs
This position may require eligibility to access controlled or proprietary information and may be subject to confidentiality and employment agreements, including an NDA and role-specific restrictive covenants, in accordance with applicable laws.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan with employer match
- Paid time off, federal holidays, and personal leave
- Professional development and continuing education support
- Downtown Cleveland parking or transit subsidy
- Collaborative, mission-driven institutional culture
- Incentive compensation and potential equity participation for exceptional candidates
- Principal technical authority in an institution designed around advanced propulsion
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