Propulsion Test Engineer

Propulsion Test Engineer

Location: Onsite in Leander, TX
Employment Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Director of Engineering

Position Overview

We are seeking a hands-on Propulsion Test Engineer to design, build, operate, and support propulsion and ballistic testing systems. This role involves developing test fixtures and static test rigs, configuring instrumentation and data-acquisition systems, conducting propulsion test campaigns, and analyzing test results.

The ideal candidate combines strong mechanical engineering fundamentals with practical experience in testing, fabrication, hardware integration, and troubleshooting.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, build, and operate propulsion and ballistic test setups, fixtures, and mechanical test rigs.
• Create CAD models and mechanical designs for test hardware and fixture improvements.
• Develop propulsion characterization procedures and static test plans.
• Configure and operate data-acquisition systems, instrumentation, sensors, and associated wiring.
• Conduct rocket static-thrust-stand tests and other propulsion-related test campaigns.
• Perform data reduction, technical analysis, and post-test reporting.
• Support hardware manufacturing, mechanical assembly, integration, and troubleshooting.
• Create and maintain work instructions, safety procedures, and technical documentation.
• Support ground and flight testing.
• Diagnose performance issues and rapidly implement design or testing improvements.
• Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams throughout the testing lifecycle.

Required Qualifications

• Proficiency with SolidWorks, Onshape, or comparable CAD software.
• Experience with instrumentation, sensors, and data-acquisition systems, including technologies such as:
  • Pressure transducers
  • Load cells
  • Strain gauges
  • Thermocouples
  • Optical measurement systems
• Working knowledge of electrical systems, wiring, and sensor integration.
• Experience designing mechanical test fixtures, fixturing, or test rigs.
• Hands-on experience with mechanical assembly, fabrication, and hardware integration.
• Strong understanding of mechanical engineering fundamentals.
• Ability to work onsite in Leander, Texas.
• Must meet applicable U.S. export-control requirements, such as being a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident, protected refugee or asylee, or otherwise eligible to receive the required government authorization.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Experience with solid rocket motors or other propulsion systems.
• Knowledge of solid-propellant mixing, energetic-material handling, and cure cycles.
• Experience working with high-speed data-acquisition systems.
• Familiarity with LabVIEW, MATLAB, Python, or comparable data-analysis tools.
• Welding, machining, or fabrication experience.
• Machine-shop experience.
• Cleanroom experience.
• Previous experience in aerospace, defense, or another highly regulated hardware environment.

Work Environment

This is an onsite, hands-on engineering position involving mechanical fabrication, instrumentation, hardware integration, static testing, ground testing, and occasional flight-test support. Candidates should be comfortable working in a fast-moving environment where testing results directly inform rapid engineering improvements.