Propulsion Design Engineering Co-op - Spring 2027 at Specter Aerospace

Role Summary

Specter Aerospace is seeking a Propulsion Engineer Co-op (4-6+ month cycle) to be a significant contributor to the development and testing of hypersonic propulsion systems. Those in this role will have the opportunity to take ownership in the design, manufacturing, and test of advanced ramjet/scramjet engine hardware. A successful candidate will have a passion for both hands-on work and the analysis of thermofluid systems. 

Note: Specter hires both Propulsion Design Engineer Co-ops and Propulsion Test Engineer Co-ops from this application, depending on an applicant’s interest and experience. Please submit an application to this posting if you are interested in either position.

About Specter Aerospace

Specter Aerospace is building the next generation of hypersonic vehicles for U.S. Forces and Allies. With offices in Boston and Peabody, MA, Specter leverages its advanced propulsion technologies, manufacturing, and testing capabilities to rapidly develop supersonic and hypersonic systems. Our Propulsion Design Engineering Co-op will be based in our Peabody office. Funded by a mix of government R&D organizations and private funding, Specter is expanding its team in preparation for flight testing and full-scale production.

Specter offers a wide diversity of tasks, projects, and technical exposure, all while providing co-ops with the same resources and project ownership as our full-time staff members. Our co-ops work closely with experienced engineers and scientists to complete projects that are critical to the mission of the company. 

Role Responsibilities: 

• Take ownership in propulsion subsystem/component development from ideation to first-article test and characterization 

• Design and manufacture engine components, test stand hardware, and piping/tubing systems leveraging in-house machining capabilities 

• Conduct engine and propulsion component testing in a direct-connect hypersonic testing facility 

• Develop thermofluids and propulsion performance analysis code (Python/MATLAB)  

• Participate in design reviews and technical discussions across multidisciplinary vehicle sub-system groups 

Required Qualifications

• Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or equivalent 

• Experience with CAD software (SolidWorks preferred) 

• Prior hands-on experience in a technical shop, lab, or student organization 

• Comfort with project autonomy, fast-paced work environments, and design ownership 

• Fundamental understanding of core mechanical engineering principles, especially those relating to thermofluids (Fluid mechanics, heat transfer, gas dynamics) 

• Eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret security clearance (U.S. Citizenship required) 

• Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check 

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous professional OR student team (FSAE, SEDS, AIAA, etc.) project experience relevant to the requirements for this position 

• Previous experience in positions that involve fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, gas dynamics and/or combustion 

• MATLAB or Python experience, especially in the development of thermofluids analysis tools 

• Hardware design and build experience in rocket engines or ram/scramjet engine platforms 

• Experience in the manufacture and troubleshooting of fluid systems consisting of valves, pumps, tubing, piping, etc. 

• Ability to diagnose and troubleshoot issues relating to data acquisition systems (LabView, PLCs) and test stand sensors (pressure transducers, thermocouples, load cells) 

• Experience with creating plumbing and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs) 

• Previous experience with manual machining, CAM, design for manufacture, and design for additive manufacture 

EEO Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.