Sr. Test Engineer (Gasification R&D)

About the role

We are seeking a Senior Test Engineer to lead the development and operation of test campaigns for our high-pressure gasification R&D program. The role involves designing, building, and operating test stands that simulate challenging conditions, such as high-pressure and high-temperature gasification systems. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in test engineering, particularly with high-pressure gas systems and instrumentation.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, procurement, construction, and operation of test stands for high-pressure gasification systems.
• Design and integrate instrumentation, sampling, and flow-control hardware that can withstand harsh conditions like particulates, erosion, and fouling.
• Automate test operations and implement safe, repeatable abort and interlock logic for high-energy test sequences.
• Direct test execution, including campaign planning, startup and shutdown sequencing, and real-time decision-making.
• Collaborate with gasifier reactor engineers and Arbor’s Systems Engineering team to develop test plans, P&IDs, and operating procedures.
• Troubleshoot hardware, instrumentation, and control issues, driving corrective actions to resolution.
• Develop and maintain test-site procedures and operating practices, ensuring compliance with safety standards and participating in PHA/HAZOPs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Chemical, or related Engineering field.
• 5+ years of hands-on test-engineering experience, including system testing, validation, or commissioning.
• Direct experience with high-pressure gas systems and high-temperature systems, including hardware, instrumentation, and safety practices.
• Strong instrumentation, sensor integration, and data acquisition skills, with a proven track record of reliable measurements and findings.
• Highly self-directed, able to take broad goals and drive details to resolution without needing constant supervision.
• Strong ownership mentality and a curious, inventive mindset suitable for a small, fast-paced startup environment.
• Willingness and ability to work on-site at our test facility in San Bernardino, CA.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with gasification, slag-forming, oxy-fuel combustion, refractory-lined reactors, FCC, coker, ash- or solids-handling, or other dirty, high-temperature, fouling-prone systems.
• Hands-on operating experience in pilot plants, test stands, national labs, or aerospace test cells.
• Proficiency with Python, MATLAB, or similar for data reduction; experience with PLCs, control systems, and industrial sensors.
• Experience with supercritical CO₂ or other high-pressure (100+ bar) systems.
• Familiarity with relevant industry standards (ASME, API) and test-site safety practices.
• Background in startup, R&D, or first-of-a-kind hardware development environments.