About Chimera Rocket Labs
Chimera Rocket Labs is revolutionizing space exploration with cutting-edge aerospace technology while maintaining a strong focus on cost efficiency and sustainability. As we push the boundaries of innovation, we seek to optimize costs without compromising performance, safety, or mission success.
Job Summary
We are looking for an Affordability Engineer to drive cost-reduction strategies across our rocket design, manufacturing, and operations. This role will focus on analyzing cost drivers, implementing design-to-cost methodologies, and collaborating with engineering, procurement, and finance teams to enhance affordability while maintaining technical excellence. The ideal candidate has experience in cost modeling, value engineering, and lean manufacturing within the aerospace or defense sector.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement affordability strategies to reduce production and operational costs in rocket systems.
- Conduct cost analyses, trade studies, and value engineering assessments to optimize designs.
- Collaborate with engineering teams to identify and integrate cost-saving design modifications without sacrificing performance.
- Work with procurement and supply chain teams to identify cost-effective sourcing strategies and supplier negotiations.
- Utilize Design-to-Cost (DTC) and Should-Cost methodologies to establish cost baselines and drive cost reductions.
- Assess manufacturability and lifecycle costs, providing recommendations for cost-efficient production methods.
- Develop and present affordability metrics and cost reduction reports to leadership.
- Monitor industry trends and best practices in cost optimization for aerospace applications.
- Identify opportunities for automation and process improvements to enhance efficiency.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related field.
- 3+ years of experience in cost engineering, affordability analysis, or cost optimization in aerospace, defense, or high-tech manufacturing.
- Strong understanding of Design-to-Cost (DTC), Should-Cost modeling, and value engineering principles.
- Experience working with cost estimation tools, statistical analysis, and financial modeling.
- Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles and supply chain cost optimization strategies.
- Excellent analytical skills with a data-driven approach to problem-solving.
- Strong communication skills to effectively collaborate across technical and business teams.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in the space industry with a focus on cost reduction strategies.
- Familiarity with government contracts and cost estimation methodologies (e.g., NASA, DoD).
- Certification in cost engineering (e.g., Certified Cost Professional, Six Sigma, Lean).
- Proficiency in cost modeling software and enterprise resource planning (ERP) tools.
Why Join Chimera Rocket Labs?
- Work on cutting-edge space technologies while optimizing costs for mission success.
- Collaborate with top engineers and industry experts in a fast-paced environment.
- Make a tangible impact on the affordability and accessibility of space exploration.
- Enjoy a flexible, remote work environment with opportunities for career growth.
If you are passionate about driving cost-effective solutions in aerospace and want to contribute to the future of space exploration, apply today to join Chimera Rocket Labs! 🚀💰
