Propulsion Integration Technician
Hermeus is a venture-backed defense aviation company reclaiming the lost art of rapid iterative prototyping to build the fastest aircraft in the world today. By prioritizing relentless hardware iteration, we deliver high-speed systems at the pace of the modern battlefield. We work with the Department of War to provide the high-speed capabilities our nation and its allies need to maintain a durable, asymmetric advantage.
About The Role:
The Manufacturing Team at Hermeus are the boots on the ground. We have a vast array of experiences ranging from welding, additive, tube bending, machining, integration, and avionics. We are a lean team who are responsible for building a vehicle that will fly. We provide crucial design feedback to our engineering team and can rapidly iterate on design and assembly.
As a Propulsion Integration Technician supporting early-stage R&D and product development, you’ll work at the forefront of propulsion innovation-building, testing, and refining systems that will define future flight hardware. You’ll partner directly with engineers to translate design intent into reality, providing critical feedback on manufacturability, performance, and test readiness. This role requires deep technical skill, adaptability, and hands-on experience developing spaceflight or propulsion systems in fast-paced prototype environments.
Responsibilities
- Assemble, integrate, and test prototype propulsion and fluid systems from early engineering drawings and schematics.
- Perform mechanical, pneumatic, and electromechanical builds with precision and attention to design intent.
- Provide direct feedback to engineering on design improvements, build sequence, and hardware performance.
- Conduct functional testing, pressure testing, and leak verification of propulsion subassemblies.
- Support data collection, test setup, and post-test inspection during engine and subsystem development.
- Fabricate or modify components and tooling to support rapid iteration and hands-on problem solving.
- Uphold the highest standards of safety, cleanliness, and quality in all lab and shop environments.
Requirements
- 5+ years of hands-on experience as a propulsion, aerospace, or mechanical technician in R&D or flight development environments.
- Proven impact building and testing propulsion, engine, or fluid systems for aerospace applications.
- Strong ability to interpret engineering drawings, P&IDs, and assembly procedures.
- Skilled in precision assembly, torqueing, sealing, and pressure system fabrication.
- Proficient in precision measurement tools (micrometers, calipers, depth gauges) and GD&T fundamentals.
- Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot, redline, and iterate directly with engineering teams.
- Physically able to lift 50 lbs, work in confined spaces, and support test operations as needed.
Preferred Skills and Experience
- A&P license or relevant technical certification.
- Experience in liquid propulsion R&D, including early-stage prototype builds and engine development.
- Hands-on experience with build, assembly, and test of complex actuator or mechanical assemblies.
- Proficiency in TIG welding, tube bending, and precision fitting of fluid systems.
- Experience with ground support equipment (GSE) setup, operation, and maintenance.
- Familiarity with pressure testing, leak checks, and data acquisition systems.
- Capable of designing or modifying custom tooling and fixtures for test and assembly.
- Prior work in startup or rapid-iteration space programs where technicians directly influence design and test outcomes.
The salary range listed for this role is intended as a general guideline. Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including role scope and responsibilities, relevant experience, education and training, key skills, market data, and business needs.
At Hermeus, compensation is only one part of our total rewards package. We offer competitive pay, equity, and a range of benefits designed to support our team.
Benefits:
- Health & Wellness: 100% employer-paid healthcare and pet insurance
- Financial: Competitive pay, stock options, 401(k) retirement plan, and potential year-end bonuses
- Time Off: Paid parental leave, 12 federal holidays, unlimited PTO for exempt employees, and generous accrued PTO for non-exempt employees
- Office Perks: Weekly paid office lunches and fully stocked breakrooms
U.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS
The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a “U.S. person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.62 or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. US persons include U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
Hermeus is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions at Hermeus are based solely on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.