Propulsion Engineer Co-op - Spring 2026

Propulsion Engineer Co-op

Job 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 for this position will have a passion for both hands-on work and the analysis of thermofluid systems.

About Specter Aerospace:

Specter Aerospace is building the next generation of hypersonic vehicles for defense and commercial applications. Specter is headquartered in Peabody, MA, just north of Boston, where it leverages its advanced propulsion technologies, manufacturing, and testing capabilities to rapidly develop supersonic and hypersonic systems. Funded by a mix of government R&D organizations, commercial customers, and private funding, Specter is a growing aerospace and defense startup. Close relationships with MIT, Notre Dame, AFRL, NRL, ANL, and other research organizations provide access to cutting-edge developments, facilities, and personnel. Specter is expanding its team in preparation for flight testing and full-scale production.

Role & Responsibilities:

• Work in a rapidly growing startup developing advanced plasma-assisted combustion technologies


• 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


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

Job Requirements:

• Experience with CAD software (SolidWorks preferred)


• MATLAB or Python experience for developing thermofluid system analysis tools


• 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)


• Ability to obtain a DoD security clearance (S. Citizenship required)

Desired Skills:

• Previous relevant professional OR student team (FSAE, SEDS, AIAA, etc.) project experience


• Hardware design 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