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.