Principal Test Engineer

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:

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• 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.
• Active U.S. government security clearance.