Rocket Propulsion Systems Engineer
Sierra Lobo
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Edwards, CA · Posted October 14, 2026
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Sierra Lobo has filed one layoff notice in the last twelve months, covering 242 workers, most recently September 2026. These are public filings with state labor departments, and an open role can sit alongside them. See the filings
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About the job
Overview
The Sierra Lobo Rocket Technology and Engineering Services II (RTES II) contract provides advise and assist services (A&AS) at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Edwards AFB, California. AFRL conducts rocket propulsion research, as well as developing associated test processes and facilities.
The Liquid Rocket Research Engineer will provide expert technical advisory support for a variety of rocket propulsion development projects. Join an established team of engineers and program managers in the Space Access Branch of the Air Force Research Laboratory, Rocket Propulsion Division (AFRL/RQR) performing research, and development on various engine and launch vehicle technologies to enhance the nation’s Space Access capability.
Sierra Lobo, offers customers a full range of professional and technical capabilities, including Test and Evaluation, Systems Engineering, and Advanced Technologies. We also develop products and processes related to Cryogenic Fluid and Thermal Management Systems, Densified Propellant Management Systems, and Prototype Extreme Pressure and Temperature Systems. Our customers include the Department of Defense (DoD), the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Army, Missile Defense Agency (MDA), and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
This position will be located at Edwards AFB, CA.
EOE/Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran
Responsibilities
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Developing and/or implementing rigorous systems engineering processes to manage requirements, risks (and mitigations), interfaces, verification and validation plans, and other systems engineering products
Translating systems engineering products into concise, actionable communication (both technical and executive) to aid the Program Team
Reviewing technical designs and engineering data products to verify compliance with AFRL intent/requirements and adherence to systems engineering processes/practices
Coordinating and executing technical meetings and design reviews
Contributing to Program Management activities along with the Program Team, including tracking cost, schedule, execution, and developing and delivering tailored communication products to a variety of stakeholders
Interfacing with counterparts on contractor teams to ensure that their progress is appropriately tracked and managed and that AFRL intent and resources are being appropriately applied
Assisting in the development of new research and development program and project plans to develop and demonstrate new technology to meet existing and new Air Force and Space Force requirements
Collaborating with other portions of the Air Force and Space Force, as well as other government agencies and industry
Traveling, as required, to other government sites and contractor facilities
Qualifications
REQUISITE SKILLS:
A self-motivated drive of increasing one’s expertise and familiarity within a new technical discipline or technical area.
The flexibility, creativity, and innovative mindset to be comfortable in a fast-paced, research & development environment.
Familiarity with rocket propulsion is desirable.
Familiarity with developing and implementing complex, multi-faceted research & development programs is desirable.
Experience with Program Management and Systems Engineering software (MS Project, Cameo, etc.) is a plus.
The candidate shall have a good command of Microsoft Office software (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
A strong command of the English language, in both written and spoken communication, is required.
The candidate shall be able to operate in a multi-disciplinary team environment, and shall have excellent interpersonal, reporting and communication skills (written and verbal).
QUALIFICATIONS:
Candidates must have earned a B.S. degree or higher in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering or a similar discipline with 5 or more years’ experience.
The candidate must be a US citizen.
Must obtain a US DoW security clearance.