Staff Propulsion Test Engineer

Purpose

We're seeking a Staff Propulsion Test Engineer to architect, build, and operate world-class propulsion test infrastructure that accelerates the development of next-generation turbo machinery and jet engines.

The Role

• Deliver fully operational propulsion test stands from concept through commissioning, owning the mechanical, fluid, controls, and instrumentation systems required for safe, repeatable engine testing.
• Build robust, flight-ready test infrastructure by designing structural hardware, high-pressure fluid systems, and facility equipment that meets demanding propulsion testing requirements.
• Cook up test readiness reviews, including safety, instrumentation, and limits review in preparation for test events.
• Deliver high-fidelity test data by architecting and integrating instrumentation, DAQ, and control systems that provide reliable, flight-critical measurements for propulsion performance evaluation.
• Commission and operate propulsion test systems by leading assembly, first-flow activation, shakedown testing, operating procedure development, and safe execution of engine test campaigns.
• Drive propulsion test execution and technical insight by partnering with Performance Engineering to analyze results, benchmark engine performance, and resolve technical issues through root-cause investigation.
• Continuously improve test capability by automating test operations, increasing reliability and throughput, and evolving infrastructure to accelerate propulsion development in alignment with the DAPS philosophy.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• Demonstrated experience designing, building, commissioning, and operating complex propulsion or mechanical test systems, including hands-on integration, troubleshooting, and test execution.
• Excellent ability to collaborate with technical and functional teams in prior to and during test events.
• Strong technical foundation in high-pressure fluid systems, instrumentation, and high-speed data acquisition, including pressure system design, sensor integration, signal conditioning, and development of reliable, high-fidelity test data systems in accordance with ASME B31.3 or equivalent engineering standards.
• Ability to lawfully access information and technology subject to U.S. export controls.

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience testing turbo machinery, gas turbines, or jet engines.
• Strong understanding of propulsion test planning, test execution, data acquisition, and performance analysis.
• Experience with advanced sensing technologies, including fiber optic instrumentation.
• Experience with PLCs, industrial controls, automation, or integrated test control systems.
• Familiarity with vibration, NVH, and propulsion performance characterization.
• Experience working in fast-paced R&D or first-of-a-kind hardware development environments.
• A builder's mindset—you naturally envision how to transform an empty space into a safe, efficient, and highly capable propulsion test facility.
• Collaborative leadership style with a track record of enabling multidisciplinary teams to deliver complex technical systems.