Principal Test Engineer

You can get further details about the nature of this opening, and what is expected from applicants, by reading the below.

Join our rapidly growing rocket propulsion company and play a critical role in developing, building, and testing next-generation propulsion systems. As a Principal Test Engineer , you will lead the assembly, instrumentation, and execution of propulsion test campaigns, working alongside a highly collaborative engineering team to take hardware from concept to hot fire. This is an opportunity to make a direct impact on flight-critical hardware in a fast-paced startup environment where innovation, ownership, and execution are valued.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the assembly, integration, and testing of rocket propulsion hardware and development test articles.
• Design and build test fixtures, stands, mounts, launchers, and ground support equipment.
• Integrate and troubleshoot instrumentation, including pressure transducers, thermocouples, strain gauges, load cells, and other test sensors.
• Configure, calibrate, and operate high-speed data acquisition (DAQ) systems to capture critical engine performance data.
• Develop detailed test plans, procedures, hazard analyses, and post-test reports.
• Execute component, subsystem, and full-scale propulsion tests, including static-fire campaigns.
• Analyze test data, identify anomalies, perform root cause investigations, and recommend design improvements.
• Partner closely with propulsion, design, manufacturing, and systems engineers to rapidly iterate and mature hardware.
• Continuously improve test infrastructure, processes, and safety practices to increase testing efficiency and reliability.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's in Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering, or another relevant field.
• 10+ years of experience testing rocket-powered launch vehicles.
• Familiarity with solid rocket motors and amateur rocket development.
• Proficient with SolidWorks or other CAD software and familiarity with LabView.
• Skilled in machining, metal fabrication, and instrumentation.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• U.S. citizen with eligibility for government security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering or another relevant field.
• 15+ years of experience testing rocket-powered launch vehicles.
• Direct experience with solid rocket motors and amateur rocketry.
• Familiarity with DAQ systems (NI, Kulite, HBM, etc.).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. xhyhwjd
• Active U.S. government security clearance.