Propulsion Engineer

Mach Industries; San Luis Obispo (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Mach Industries in California is seeking a Propulsion Engineer to support calibration and testing of advanced small engine systems for airborne defense platforms. As a Propulsion Test Engineer, you will help ensure performance, reliability, and manufacturability of propulsion systems powering autonomous defense platforms.

You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary engineering team to create high-performance, manufacturable engines, contribute to test cell design, data acquisition, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or higher in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering.
• 2+ years of mechanical engineering experience focused on engine systems.
• Experience with test operations and flight test campaigns helpful.
• Proficient with CAD tools and analysis software.
• Hands-on prototyping, testing, and iteration of mechanical systems.
• Willing to support short-term off-site testing at ranges.

Responsibilities

• Create test systems and instrumentation packages.
• Develop control systems for test cells ensuring data accuracy.
• Execute verification and validation test plans for engines.
• Assist in assembly, integration, and testing of first articles.
• Collaborate with propulsion design, systems integration, and manufacturing.
• Analyze test data to validate engine performance and identify anomalies.
• Support short-term off-site testing at multiple test ranges.

Skills

Mechanical engineering

Engine systems

Flight test development

Prototyping & testing

Test operations

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

NX

SolidWorks

FEA

CFD

Job description

About Mach Industries

Founded in 2023, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 350 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.

Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.

The Role

Mach Industries is seeking a Propulsion Engineer to support the calibration and testing of advanced small engine systems for the next generation of airborne defense platforms. As a Propulsion Test Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the performance, reliability, and manufacturability of our propulsion systems, helping to maintain the United States’ strategic edge in modern warfare. Your expertise will drive the development and validation of high-performance engines that power autonomous defense platforms.

Mach Propulsion is redefining the small turbine engine—designing for high-rate production, scalability, modularity, and adaptability to help the United States maintain its edge in a rapidly evolving defense landscape. This is a chance to shape a new kind of propulsion company, one built around modern, automated manufacturing to deliver capable engines at meaningful volumes. In this role, you will collaborate with a multidisciplinary engineering team to create high-performance, manufacturable systems that meet demanding mission requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Create test systems and infrastructure including test cells and instrumentation packages.

• Develop control systems for test cells maintaining high accuracy and quality of data reported.

• Execute verification and validation test plans of engines and related systems.

• Assist in assembly, integration, and testing activities for first articles and first flight assets.

• Collaborate with propulsion design, systems integration, and manufacturing teams to ensure test results inform system optimization.

• Analyze test data to validate engine performance, identify anomalies, and recommend improvements.

• Support short-term off-site testing at various test ranges as needed to meet project milestones.

Required Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, with a focus on engine systems, drivetrain, or complex mechanical systems, emphasis on test preferred.

• Multi-talented across overall test ops, understanding of flight test development campaigns and helping to lead the engineering team on requirements.

• Proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., NX, SolidWorks) and experience with engineering analysis tools (e.g., FEA, CFD).

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.

• Hands-on experience with prototyping, testing, and iteration of mechanical systems.

• Willing to support short-term off-site testing at various test ranges.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience testing small turbine engines or propulsion systems for aerospace or defense applications.

• Familiarity with test cell design, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems for propulsion testing.

• Knowledge of flight test campaigns and aerospace validation processes.

• Experience with control systems development for high-precision testing environments.

• Understanding of defense industry standards for propulsion system testing and certification.

Disclosures

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.

Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws.