Propulsion Test Engineer

Key Responsibilities

• Test Design & Setup: Design and maintain propulsion test stands and ground support systems used to secure engines during static fire and development testing.
• Execution: Lead and support test campaigns ranging from component-level testing (valves, regulators, feed systems) to full-scale integrated rocket engine hot-fire operations.
• Data Analysis: Use high-speed sensors and instrumentation to collect and analyze pressure, temperature, and thrust data to validate performance against specifications.
• Safety & Operations: Execute and oversee hazardous operations involving high-pressure systems and cryogenic propellants such as liquid oxygen (LOX), ensuring strict safety compliance and operational discipline.

Required Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in propulsion, aerospace, automotive, industrial testing, mechanical development, or related technical environments.
• Experience working with mechanical assemblies, fluid systems, pressure systems, or propulsion hardware.
• Experience supporting test operations, troubleshooting, and rapid hardware iteration in development environments.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, assembly instructions, and test procedures.
• Hands-on experience using shop equipment, torque tools, tubing tools, pressure equipment, and diagnostic instrumentation.
• Strong systems-thinking and troubleshooting mindset with the ability to quickly identify and resolve hardware, fluid, or test setup issues.
• Willingness to support extended hours and short-term travel during active test campaigns.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting rocket engines, turbine engines, thrusters, UAV propulsion systems, or aerospace propulsion hardware.
• Familiarity with propulsion test cells, DAQ systems, instrumentation, and engine calibration techniques.
• Experience with cryogenic systems, pneumatic systems, or hazardous fluid operations (LOX, GN2, GHe).
• A&P certification, military propulsion maintenance experience, or equivalent aerospace technical training.
• Experience supporting flight test campaigns or defense development programs.
• Welding, tubing fabrication, or precision mechanical assembly experience.
• Familiarity with cleanroom practices, contamination control, and aerospace-quality documentation standards.
• Ability to work cross-functionally with engineering, manufacturing, and flight-test teams in rapid development environments.