Rotordynamics Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

Rotordynamics Engineer – Build High-Speed Space Propulsion & Advanced Rotating Systems!

El Segundo, CA | On-site

Opportunity Summary

A fast-growing, venture-backed space technology startup with active government contracts is seeking a Rotordynamics Engineer to design, analyze, and validate high-speed rotating systems critical to next-generation space platforms. This role will own the dynamics of turbines, shafts, bearings, and ultra-high-RPM components operating in extreme environments including vacuum, thermal gradients, and long-duration missions. You’ll work hands-on across design, simulation, testing, and iteration — shaping everything from advanced bearing systems to rapidly rotating blades and motor-driven assemblies. This is an opportunity to build foundational rotating machinery capabilities at an early-stage company developing breakthrough space systems with real customer traction and aggressive growth plans.

About Us

We are a mission-driven space systems startup developing novel propulsion and high-performance mechanical platforms for operation in extreme orbital environments. Backed by experienced engineers and industry leaders, and supported by multiple government programs, our team is building hardware that pushes the limits of efficiency, reliability, and speed in space. Our culture values technical ownership, fast iteration, and engineering rigor — with every team member directly shaping flight-critical systems.

Job Duties

• Lead rotordynamic design and analysis for high-speed rotating components including turbines, shafts, impellers, and motor-driven assemblies
• Design and evaluate bearing systems including rolling element bearings, fluid film bearings, and magnetic bearing technologies
• Perform stability, critical speed, vibration, and resonance analyses using analytical methods and simulation tools
• Develop models for operation in vacuum, thermal extremes, and long-life space environments
• Partner with mechanical, propulsion, and electrical teams to integrate rotating systems into full space platforms
• Own test planning and execution including spin testing, vibration characterization, and failure analysis
• Drive design iterations based on test data and performance requirements
• Support reliability, lifetime prediction, and risk mitigation for mission-critical hardware

Qualifications

Preferred Experience

Why Join

Compensation

$120,000 - $180,000

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