Lead Propulsion Test Engineer

Kratos Unmanned Systems; Auburn Hills (MI); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Kratos Defense seeks a Test Engineer to plan, execute, analyze, and report propulsion system tests across development, acceptance, and customer programs. You will provide technical leadership, coordinate with R&D, design, and product engineering, and ensure data integrity and customer confidence in all test activities.

The role requires hands-on testing, data analysis, and clear communication to stakeholders, with collaboration across technical teams and shop-floor personnel to deliver reliable

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical, or Systems Engineering and 5+ years of engine testing experience
• Experience leading engine testing and test teams
• Proficiency with instrumentation, DAQ systems, and data analysis
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage ITAR-controlled and confidential information

Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, analyze, and report propulsion system tests across development, acceptance, qualification, and customer programs
• Provide technical leadership and coordinate across R&D, Design and Product Engineering
• Lead and supervise test activities in test cells, development rigs, and customer environments
• Define data acquisition strategies and ensure proper instrumentation configuration
• Ensure test results are traceable, accurate, and customer-ready

Skills

Propulsion systems

Gas turbine engines

Engine testing

Instrumentation

DAQ systems

Data analysis

Diagnostics

Root cause analysis

Communication skills

ITAR

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical, or Systems Engineering

Tools

LabVIEW

MATLAB

Python

Job description

Kratos Defense seeks a Test Engineer to plan, execute, analyze, and report propulsion system tests across development, acceptance, and customer programs. You will provide technical leadership, coordinate with R&D, design, and product engineering, and ensure data integrity and customer confidence in all test activities.

The role requires hands-on testing, data analysis, and clear communication to stakeholders, with collaboration across technical teams and shop-floor personnel to deliver reliable