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James Harris

Senior Director of Propulsion at Relativity Space

James Harris is currently the Vice President of Propulsion Engineering at Relativity Space, a role he has held since August 2023. In this position, he focuses on integrating mechanical hardware, electronics, and software to innovate rocket design and manufacturing using additive manufacturing techniques. His previous experience includes significant roles in the aerospace sector, notably as the Chief Engineer for Terran 1 at Relativity Space and leading motion control systems engineering at Waymo. He also worked at Blue Origin, where he was instrumental in ground testing and was a flight controller for the New Shepard suborbital vehicle's first successful mission.

Professional Background

  • Relativity Space
    • Vice President of Propulsion Engineering (Aug 2023 - Present)
    • Chief Engineer, Terran 1 (Dec 2021 - Jul 2023)
  • Waymo
    • Motion Control Systems Engineering Lead (Mar 2017 - Aug 2018)
  • Blue Origin
    • New Glenn Mission Ops Deputy Element Lead (Nov 2016 - Mar 2017)

Education

James Harris earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Tufts University, graduating summa cum laude in 2008.

His extensive background in engineering leadership emphasizes his commitment to mentoring young engineers and establishing effective processes within teams to achieve high-quality outcomes in complex engineering projects.1

Highlights

Oct 15 · linkedin

We're continuing to grow and expand our team at Relativity. I'm looking for some talented test engineers to help us plan and execute all of our stage and vehicle level integrated tests. This is a great opportunity for someone with a few years of experience who wants to get a wider view of launch vehicles. If you've got testing experience, you're a fast learner, you're well organized and a hard worker, reach out to me to talk about the role.

Come help us build and fly the world's first 3d printed rocket.

https://lnkd.in/gYVVhZJ

Sep 23 · linkedin

I'm looking for some talented engineering leaders to join my team as Stage Responsible Engineers. The role is part project manager, part systems engineer, and part technical firefighter. You would be responsible for working with design groups to make sure subsystems will come together and produce the vehicle performance we need, as well as overseeing integration, and leading integrated test campaigns including stage hot fires. Ideal candidates will have good cross functional skills including some exposure to avionics and software, and a track record of delivering success on complicated projects. Reach out if you're interested.

https://lnkd.in/gjbw3Qx

Related Questions

What is James Harris's role at Relativity Space?
How did James Harris transition from the FBI to a career in engineering?
What projects has James Harris worked on at Blue Origin?
What is James Harris's educational background?
How has James Harris's experience at Waymo influenced his work at Relativity Space?
James Harris
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Experience

Senior Director of Propulsion at Relativity Space
Chief Engineer, Terran 1 at Relativity Space (December 2021 - July 2023), Motion Control Systems Engineering Lead at Waymo (March 2017 - August 2018), Integrated Test Operations Lead at Blue Origin (November 2013 - November 2016)

Education

BS in Mechanical Engineering, Tufts University (2004 - 2008), Graduated Suma cum Laude

Location

Los Angeles Metropolitan Area