Hypersonic Test Technician – Propulsion Lab

Airbus Ventures; Houston (TX); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) plan

Stock options

Medical benefits including dental and/

Flex-Friday schedule

Unlimited PTO

Professional development

Job summary

Venus Aerospace is seeking a Test Technician to contribute to hypersonic vehicle development through hands-on testing, test stand support, and troubleshooting. This role is ideal for technicians with fabrication and instrumentation experience in fast-paced, safety-first environments.

You will work on-site in Houston, TX, performing a range of tests across propulsion, structures, and instrumentation, while maintaining strict safety protocols and collaborating with cross-functional teams to

Qualifications

• Reading P&ID (Blue Print) and understanding system function.
• Troubleshooting sensors, wiring, harnessing, soldering, and crimping.
• Proficiency in operating and maintaining vacuum, hydrostatic, and pneumatic pumps/boosters.
• Able to communicate clearly over devices and follow Hazmat protocols.
• Capable of safely lifting up to 40 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Participate in test activities to develop a hypersonic vehicle.
• Test propulsion engine, structures, instrumentation checkouts, etc.
• Support setup, breakdown, upgrades, and maintenance of test stands.
• Assist with additional test and operational activities as required.
• Support testing outside at Ellington Airport for extended periods.
• Operate safely and adhere to all safety guidelines.

Skills

P&ID reading

Instrumentation troubleshooting

Mechanical troubleshooting

Electrical troubleshooting

Clear communication

Hazmat safety

Lifting up to 40 lbs

Tools

Seamless tube bending

Metal fabrication

Soldering

Crimping

Pumps and boosters operation

Forklift operation

Lift equipment operation (sky track/boom/scissor)

Job description

Who We Are

Venus Aerospace is revolutionizing rocket engine propulsion. With the first generational leap in rocket engine technology since Apollo, our proprietary Rotating Detonation Rocket Engine and Venus Detonation Ramjets deliver historic efficiency and performance across aerospace applications. We are building the next generation of propulsion platforms that enable breakthrough capabilities in space, defense, and commercial high-speed flight. Our team thrives on solving the toughest engineering challenges and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in aerospace. At Venus, we’re looking for bold engineers and innovators who want to make history and redefine the future of propulsion.

The Role: Test Technician

As a Test Technician, you’ll help drive hypersonic vehicle development through hands-on testing, test stand support, and troubleshooting. This role is perfect for skilled technicians with fabrication and instrumentation experience who thrive in fast-paced, safety-first environments.

What You’ll Get to Do

• Participate in test activities that lead to the development of a hypersonic vehicle.
• Testing over a broad range of tests including propulsion engine, structures, instrumentation checkouts, etc.
• Support setup, break-down, upgrades, and maintenance of test stands.
• Assist with additional test and operational activities as required.
• Support testing outside, located at Ellington Airport for extended periods of time.
• Operate in a safe manner and adhere to all safety guidelines.

What You Have

• 4+ years relevant experience.
• Fabrication experience such as seamless tube bending and flaring, metal fabrication, precision drilling, and precision cleaning, etc.(Need to know the exact use cases for tools and how to choose the right approach to each job).
• Ability to read and understand a P&ID (Blue Print) and understand a systems function.
• Instrumentation experience such as troubleshooting sensors, wire routing/harnessing, soldering, and crimping, etc.
• Proficiency in operating and maintaining pumps and boosters of all types — vacuum, hydrostatic, and pneumatic.
• Operational experience with forklift, sky track, boom lift, and scissor lift.
• Ability to communicate clearly and proficiently over communication devices.
• Troubleshooting skills for mechanical and electrical issues.
• Ability to follow Hazmat protocols in dealing with hazardous chemicals and waste.
• Capable of safely lifting up to 40-lbs.

What Will Set You Apart

• Technical expertise with R&D test operations which includes building, maintaining, and operating test stands: engine test, structural test, flow test, etc.
• GSE fabrication
• Familiarity with propulsion systems
• A&P Certification
• Experience with pressurized gasses and liquids up to 6000 psia
• Bring a strong work ethic and positive attitude. We face complex problems daily and seek teammates who bring solutions and positivity to the effort

Location:

On-site in Houston, TX

Benefits:

Venus Aerospace employee benefits include a 401(k) plan, stock options, and medical benefits, including dental and vision. We have a flex-Friday flexible schedule, unlimited PTO, and receive professional development opportunities.

ITAR Requirements

This position involves access to technology that is subject to U.S. export controls. Any job offer made will be contingent upon the applicant’s capacity to serve in compliance with U.S. export controls. To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be able to meet ITAR requirements (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). You can learn more about ITARhere.

Venus Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. If you have a disability and believe you need a reasonable accommodation, please [e-mail] call [phone].This email and phone number were created exclusively to assist job seekers whose disability prevents them from being able to apply online. Messages or any other purposes, such as following up on an application, third party staffing agencies, website technical issues, or any other issues not related to a disability, will not receive a response. Messages will be returned within five business days.

For additional information about our Equal Opportunity Employment Policy, please visit ourEEOP page.