Propulsion Test Engineer

Propulsion Test EngineerCome join our growing team where you will get to make a difference daily by continuing to help build our reputation for quality, responsiveness, and the ability to handle complex products. We have an exciting opportunity for a Propulsion Test Engineer. The successful candidate will contribute to engine test operations by assisting with test planning and execution, risk identification and mitigation, hardware integration for test campaigns, post-test inspections, data review, and engine performance analysis. The role also involves performing analyses related to safety, reliability, maintainability, and testability, ensuring all systems meet operational and safety standards. This position is in office in Newbury Park, CA and Victorville, CA.Responsibilities:Author test plans and lead hot-fire tests through various steps of thruster qualificationEnsure successful test readiness reviews, both internal and customer facingSpecify and install instrumentation on test assets for data acquisitionCreate documentation including test procedures, interface definitions, and work instructionsGain familiarity and drive continuous improvement of operational handling and checkout proceduresEmploy various analysis, modeling, and simulation tools to analyze test dataDevelop and maintain Plumbing and Instrumentation Diagrams for existing and future test standsUtilize and apply first principles reasoning to troubleshoot unforeseen issuesPerform test setup, hardware inspections, leak checks and troubleshooting as neededResolve technical issues with innovative and resourceful solutionsRelevant Experience and Requirements:Bachelor's degree (or higher) in electrical, mechanical, or aerospace engineering or related technical field of study3+ years of experience working with liquid propulsion systemsProven understanding of liquid propulsion concepts and testing methodsProfessional experience in thruster testing through qualification and flightDemonstrated ability to work safely around energetic and hazardous systemsAbility to effectively articulate technical challenges provide a clear rationale for decisions and address related concernsExcellent documentation and communication skillsAbility to operate systems using a Plumbing and Instrumentation DiagramsThorough understanding of fluid mechanics conceptsGeneral understanding of data acquisition systems, sensors, and effectorsAbility to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirementsMust be available to work extended hours, weekends, and shifts, which varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility requiredPreferred Qualifications:Prior experience in aerospace testing and/or vacuum systemsAny relevant CFD experience (Ansys Fluent, OpenFoam, AutoDesk CFD)Experience in reviewing and analyzing test data (MATLAB, Python, WinPlot)Knowledge of Excel VBA and MacrosFamiliarity with CAD applications (ProE or Creo preferred)Working knowledge of generating engineering definition documentation and work instructionsExperience supporting customer Test Readiness ReviewsComfortable taking ownership of test subsystems (operator user consoles, feed systems, effector control, etc.) and driving end-to-end performance.Experience in a startup or agile development environment with the ability to adapt to changing priorities and perform in high pressure environmentsEmployment Criteria:To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.Employment Statement:The responsibilities described on this document are not a comprehensive list and additional tasks may be assigned to the employee. The scope of the job may also change as necessitated by business demands.All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.Frontier Aerospace participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations as required by law. Learn more about the E-Verify program at Salary $86,000—$135,000 DOENote about pay range : Pay range for this job level is a general guideline for California and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.Employment Type and Exempt Status: Full-time / ExemptEmployement Location: Victorville & Newbury Park; This is an in-office position. Travel, as needed, to support test operations.Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days – totaling 80 hours worked – and have every other Friday offBenefits: 10-12 company paid holidaysVacation days and Sick days401(k) w/company matchingMedical insuranceDental, Vision, Life insuranceHealth savings account or Flexible spending account