Propulsion Engineer (Test) Role

Test Propulsion Engineer

Location:
Leander, Texas (Onsite)

Employment Type:
Full-time

Compensation:
Approximately $150,000 annually

Reports To:
Director of Engineering

Overview

An advanced defense technology organization is seeking a Test Propulsion Engineer to support the design, development, and execution of propulsion and ballistic testing systems for next-generation aerospace and autonomous platforms.

This hands-on engineering role focuses on designing and operating propulsion test infrastructure, conducting static and flight-related test campaigns, and supporting hardware integration in a fast-paced development environment.

The ideal candidate has strong mechanical engineering fundamentals, propulsion testing experience, and the ability to move rapidly from design through real-world execution.

Key Responsibilities

Propulsion Testing & Test Infrastructure

• Design and administer ballistic test setups, propulsion fixtures, and test rigs.
• Develop propulsion characterization and static test plans.
• Conduct rocket static thrust stand testing and propulsion-related test campaigns.
• Support ground and flight test activities.

Mechanical Design & CAD

• Perform CAD modeling and mechanical design updates.
• Design fixtures, support hardware, and integration components.
• Support hardware manufacturing, fabrication, assembly, and troubleshooting.

Instrumentation & Data Acquisition

• Design, configure, and operate:
  • DAQ systems
  • Instrumentation
  • Sensor integrations
• Work with:
  • Pressure transducers
  • Load cells
  • Strain gauges
  • Thermocouples
  • Optical measurement systems
• Perform data reduction, analysis, and post-test reporting.

Documentation & Safety

• Create and maintain:
  • Work instructions
  • Safety procedures
  • Technical documentation
• Diagnose performance issues and iterate rapidly on testing improvements.

Required Qualifications

• 3–5+ years of experience in propulsion testing, aerospace testing, mechanical test engineering, or related fields.
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related engineering discipline.
• Proficiency with CAD tools such as:
  • SolidWorks
  • Onshape
  • Equivalent CAD platforms
• Experience with:
  • Instrumentation systems
  • Sensors
  • DAQ systems
• Familiarity with:
  • Electrical systems and wiring
  • Mechanical assembly and fabrication
  • Hardware integration
• Strong mechanical engineering fundamentals.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with:
  • Solid rocket motors
  • Propulsion systems
  • Energetics handling
  • Cure cycles
• Clean room experience.
• Experience with high-speed data acquisition systems.
• Familiarity with:
  • LabVIEW
  • MATLAB
  • Python
• Welding, machining, and fabrication experience.
• Aerospace or defense industry experience.

Additional Requirements

• Must meet ITAR requirements (U.S. Citizen, Green Card holder, or eligible status).
• Onsite work required in Leander, TX.

Benefits

• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge aerospace and propulsion systems.
• High-impact role within a fast-moving engineering organization.
• Collaborative, hands-on development environment.