Associate Scientist - Propulsion (Monopropellant)

We are looking for an Associate Propulsion Engineer to support the design, development, testing, and productization of mono-propellant propulsion systems for aerospace and space applications. The role involves research, experimentation, hardware development, system integration, testing, data analysis, and technical documentation.

Qualifications

B.E./ B.Tech or M.E./ M.Tech in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline. 2+ years of experience in propulsion system design, testing, and hands-on hardware development.

Responsibilities

Assist in the research, design, and development of mono-propellant propulsion systems and associated components such as injectors, catalyst beds, feed systems, valves, and thrusters. Support propulsion architecture development, component selection , performance evaluation, and design iteration. Conduct literature reviews and experimental studies related to propellant decomposition, catalysis, thermal behavior, and propulsion performance.

Plan and execute component and system-level testing, including cold-flow, catalyst/decomposition, thermal, and hot-fire tests. Support prototype development, assembly, integration, checkout, and testing of propulsion hardware. Perform instrumentation setup, sensor integration, calibration, test execution, and troubleshooting.

Perform post-processing and analysis of test data and correlate experimental results with engineering calculations. Support propulsion test-stand development and improvement, including fluid systems, instrumentation, and control systems. Coordinate with manufacturing and multidisciplinary teams for fabrication, inspection, integration, and product development.

Prepare and maintain test procedures, reports and documentation. Follow applicable laboratory, propellant handling, and pressure-system safety procedures.

Requirements

Sound understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, gas dynamics, heat transfer, and rocket propulsion fundamentals. Experience with monopropellant propulsion, injector design, catalyst beds, and feed-system architecture. Working knowledge of propellant decomposition, catalytic systems, and thermal processes. Experience with engine plumbing and P&ID development/interpretation.

Hands-on experience with fluid systems, valves, regulators, sensors, and pressurized systems. Proficiency in CAD (SolidWorks) and engineering calculations. Understanding of propulsion performance analysis and experimental data interpretation. Exposure to manufacturing and integration of propulsion hardware. Experience preparing test plans, procedures, checklists, and technical reports.

Strong analytical, troubleshooting, documentation, and multidisciplinary collaboration skills.

Preferred Skills

Experience with monopropellants and catalyst systems. Basic understanding of CFD and engineering simulation tools. Familiarity with LabVIEW or equivalent DAQ/test software. Working knowledge of Python or MATLAB for test-data post-processing and analysis. Experience with thrust measurement, propulsion instrumentation, and automated test systems.

Knowledge of reaction kinetics, catalytic decomposition, or thermal analysis.