Test Engineer (Falcon Test)

Responsibilities

• Test rocket hardware to determine suitability for flight
• Provide on-console engineering support for technicians during daily test stand and hangar operations
• Perform real-time and post-test data review to evaluate the performance of test article and stand systems (fluid, structural, thermal, electrical). This includes documenting test results and recommending areas for upgrades and improvement
• Find innovative ways to create, review, and optimize test processes/procedures to increase testing capability and rate
• Identify and characterize system pitfalls and potential hazards; then work to resolve these by collaborating with design, production, and launch engineers on improvements for flight hardware and processes
• Serve as the final authority to ensure all operations are conducted in a safe manner
• Perform other related duties, as assigned, for the purpose of ensuring an efficient and effective work environment

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering or other engineering field
• 1+ years of hands-on testing experience (experience from internships, clubs or other hands-on extra-curricular activities qualifies)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• 3+ years of hands on experience with mechanical systems, structural systems, propulsion systems, fluid systems, flight hardware or test operations
• Ability to thrive in ambiguous requirements and aggressive timelines
• High levels of personal autonomy and self-driven motivation
• Knowledge of hazardous systems (high pressure, cryogenic, flammable, hypergolic, pyrophoric)
• High level of familiarity with instrumentation and control (programmable logic control, high speed data acquisition, pressure transducers, thermocouples, RTDs, strain gauges, accelerometers, flow meters, load cells, relays, solenoid valves)
• Experience with code based data analytics (Python, R, MATLAB, NI LabVIEW) to solve real world problems
• Demonstrated experience of effective root cause and failure analysis
• Experience writing and optimizing high risk technical procedures and work instructions
• Ability to read, understand and apply technical manuals, data reports, mechanical schematics, electrical schematics, and design specifications
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment, accomplishing tasks with limited resources at a rapid pace

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Flight hardware is typically built in tight quarters and physical dexterity is required
• Physical effort including sitting or standing for extended periods of time, lifting and carrying weight such as materials or equipment (up to 25 lbs. unassisted)
• Work performed in an environment with exposure to fumes, odors and noise
• Occasionally exposed to work in extreme outdoor environments (heat, cold, rain)
• Hours vary depending on site operational needs; flexibility required