Lead Hypersonic Test Engineer

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc.; Birmingham (AL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

Life/ADD & Disability Insurance

401(k) Savings Plan

Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)

Paid Time Off

Job summary

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. invites a technically seasoned Test Execution Lead to guide the Hypersonic Structures department’s aerothermal testing program.

You will manage on-site test campaigns, lead a small team of engineers, and deliver high-quality sponsor reports from national facilities. Ideal candidates have advanced degrees in aerospace or related fields, strong MATLAB/Python skills, and a proven track record in leadership and technical reporting, with DoD security

Qualifications

• US Citizenship
• Active US Driver's License - Travel is required
• Ability to obtain/maintain security clearance at a level equivalent to Department of Defense (DOD) SECRET
• Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, or Materials Engineering with a minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience, OR a Bachelor's degree in the same fields with a minimum of seven (7) years of relevant experience (other related programs will be considered)
• Proficiency in MATLAB/Python or similar scripting language
• Coursework or demonstrated experience in aerothermodynamics, high-enthalpy ground testing, or reacting/compressible gas dynamics
• Demonstrated experience leading a team
• Experience in technical report and proposal composition

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of 2-4 engineers and oversee performance evaluations
• Plan, resource, and execute full-lifecycle test campaigns in high-enthalpy facilities
• Lead pre-test engineering activities including design, analysis, instrumentation, and facility coordination
• Serve as primary engineer during on-site test events with authority over test conduct and safety
• Lead post-test data reduction, material characterization, and sponsor-facing reporting
• Act as primary technical contact for sponsor relations, reviews, and proposals
• Coordinate across teams for strategic planning, resourcing, and capability development
• Represent the department in external technical forums and publish papers

Skills

Team Leadership

Test Campaign Planning

Engineering Analysis

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Aerospace/Mechanical/Materials

Bachelor's degree in related fields

Tools

MATLAB

Python

Job description

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. invites a technically seasoned Test Execution Lead to guide the Hypersonic Structures department’s aerothermal testing program.

You will manage on-site test campaigns, lead a small team of engineers, and deliver high-quality sponsor reports from national facilities. Ideal candidates have advanced degrees in aerospace or related fields, strong MATLAB/Python skills, and a proven track record in leadership and technical reporting, with DoD security