Propulsion Initiation & Energetic Devices Lead Engineer
Job Description
Location: Metro Detroit, MI (Onsite) | Comp: $120,000–$150,000 base + annual bonus + signing bonus | Relocation: Available
What if your next design fired the start to a successful mission? Join a well-established, privately held aerospace propulsion company and lead the design and qualification of pyrotechnic systems—gas generators, initiators, and igniters—that enable flight-critical performance.
Your missionYou’ll be the conductor of the product life cycle—aligning requirements, engineering the solution, validating the design, and documenting every milestone.
- Translate customer and internal needs into clear specifications and verification approaches from concept to qualification.
- Design and analyze energetic components and propellants; partner with manufacturing to ensure robust build processes.
- Plan and run development/qualification testing, then reduce and analyze data to drive improvements.
- Author and present test plans, reports, and technical artifacts that stand up to scrutiny.
- Interpret and apply relevant government regulations, safety standards, and procedures for energetic devices.
- 10+ years developing and qualifying energetic components.
- BS or higher in Chemistry, Mechanical, Aerospace, or Chemical Engineering; Project Management backgrounds considered.
- Hands-on with requirements verification and validation (V&V).
- Knowledge of ammunition and explosive certification processes.
- Meticulous organization, data-driven analysis, and crisp documentation.
- Strong written communication and presentation skills.
Own meaningful hardware in a stable environment with long engineering tenures. Avoid the churn of defense-prime layoff cycles and focus on building flight-critical systems. Competitive pay, a signing bonus, and paid relocation support your move and momentum.
Core proficiencies & tech- Proficiencies: energetic, Explosives, Ordnance, Propellant, Pyrotechnics, Warhead
- Machines & technologies: aerospace
U.S. citizenship (required); ability to obtain a U.S. Government security clearance if needed — selected candidates may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information
Our client is a drug-free workplace; new hires are subject to pre-employment drug testing.
Our client is an equal opportunity employer — all qualified applicants will receive consideration regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or protected veteran status.
