Specialist, Propulsion System/Rocket Test Engineer

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high‑performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers’ mission and professional growth. We provide an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work‑life success, with a focus on values, community dedication, and excellence in everything we do.

About the role

Propulsion / Rocket Test Engineers work with customers, program managers, and project engineers to define test objectives and select test methods and instrumentation for propulsion systems and rocket motors and their components. They create plans and procedures for safely conducting these tests, utilizing existing test facilities and equipment, and/or designing new tools or techniques. Tests include static rocket motor firings, case proof and burst pressure testing, case structural loads testing, direct‑connect ramjet/scramjet testing, aeroheat material testing, dynamic/environmental testing, and high‑altitude simulation (vacuum) testing.

Responsibilities

• Test Planning (40%): Plan, devise, and prepare test methods, instrumentation, and tooling; interface with design/project engineering to develop/interpret test requirements; work with Quality and Safety to ensure compliance with customer and government regulations; identify/specify facility configurations; design test fixtures or select existing tooling.
• Test Execution (30%): Conduct, oversee, and support test operations in accordance with safety and quality policies; handle hardware setup, instrumentation calibration, electrical/controls setup, test article preparation, and control software input; direct subcontractors for off‑site test programs as needed.
• Documentation and Reviews (20%): Prepare technical documentation, including test procedures, safety reviews, and test readiness reviews.
• Project Management (10%): Manage cost and schedule for test programs; coordinate cost and schedule planning/estimates.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in an appropriate discipline (Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering preferred) with a minimum of 4 years related experience.
• Graduate degree with a minimum of 2 years related experience.
• In lieu of a degree, a minimum of 8 years prior related experience will be considered.

Skills

• Active DoD clearance.
• Knowledge of fundamental engineering principles: statics, dynamics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics/dynamics, basic electrical theory.
• Experience with engineering software, including 3D modeling/CAD (Creo, NX, etc.) and analytical tools (MATLAB, Python, etc.).
• Proficient use of MS Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) for procedures, presentations, and analysis.
• Effective verbal and written communication.
• Strong teamwork and collaboration in a diverse work environment.
• Interpretation and compliance with company policies, including Safety, Health & Environmental processes.
• Related lab/test experience measuring pressure, temperature, thrust/load, acceleration, etc.
• Experience with pneumatic and/or steam pressure systems (pipes, fittings, valves, regulators, filters, gauges).

Pay

Salary range for this role in Virginia: $76,500 – $142,500 (final offer may vary based on experience, location, and other factors).

Benefits

• Health and disability insurance
• 401(k) match
• Flexible spending accounts
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Education assistance
• Parental leave
• Paid time off
• Company‑paid holidays

Schedule

Shift 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days – totaling 80 hours – and have every other Friday off.