Lead Propulsion Test Engineer: Build & Commission Jet Engines

Samson Rose; Los Angeles (CA); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Samson Rose seeks a Staff Propulsion Test Engineer to architect, build and operate propulsion test infrastructure for next‑generation turbo machinery and jet engines. You will own end‑to‑end development from an empty test bay to first‑fire, including mechanical structures, fluid systems, instrumentation, and controls.

This hands‑on role requires designing hardware, commissioning fluid systems, and collaborating with EH&S, Performance Engineering, Software, and external partners to deliver

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace or Electrical Engineering or related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience designing, building, commissioning and operating propulsion or mechanical test systems.
• Strong foundation in high‑pressure fluid systems, instrumentation and high‑speed data acquisition (ASME B31.3 or equivalent).
• Ability to collaborate across technical teams during test events.
• Compliance with export‑control requirements.

Responsibilities

• Deliver propulsion test stands from concept through commissioning, owning mechanical, fluid, controls and instrumentation systems.
• Design structural hardware and high‑pressure fluid systems for propulsion testing.
• Coordinate test readiness reviews (safety, instrumentation, limits) before tests.
• Architect and integrate instrumentation, DAQ and control systems for reliable measurements.
• Lead assembly, first‑flow activation, shakedown and SOP development.
• Safely execute engine test campaigns.
• Partner with Performance Engineering to analyze results and resolve issues.
• Automate test operations to improve reliability and data quality.
• Foster ownership, safety and technical excellence.

Skills

Propulsion test design

High‑pressure fluid systems

Instrumentation & DAQ

Cross‑functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace or Electrical Engineering

Tools

PLC systems

Job description

Samson Rose seeks a Staff Propulsion Test Engineer to architect, build and operate propulsion test infrastructure for next‑generation turbo machinery and jet engines. You will own end‑to‑end development from an empty test bay to first‑fire, including mechanical structures, fluid systems, instrumentation, and controls.

This hands‑on role requires designing hardware, commissioning fluid systems, and collaborating with EH&S, Performance Engineering, Software, and external partners to deliver