Propulsion Engineering Technician

Mach Industries; San Luis Obispo (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plans

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Mach Industries is looking for a Propulsion Engineering Technician to support the calibration and testing of small engine systems for airborne defense platforms. This role involves hands-on work with propulsion systems, collaborating with engineers to ensure high performance.

The ideal candidate will have 5 years in aerospace maintenance, hands-on testing experience, and an A&P certificate. This position offers a chance to innovate in the defense sector while maintaining the strategic edge of the United States.

Qualifications

• 5 years in aerospace maintenance or development, with direct engine experience.
• Experience with testing and iterating mechanical systems.
• Willingness to support off-site testing.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain test systems and instrumentation.
• Perform engine performance testing and calibration.
• Collaborate with engineering teams to troubleshoot issues.

Skills

Aerospace maintenance experience

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Testing operations

Education

A&P certificate

Tools

Test cells

Instrumentation packages

Job description

About Mach Industries

Founded in 2022, 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 220 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 Engineering Technician to support the calibration and testing of advanced small engine systems for the next generation of airborne defense platforms. As a Propulsion Engineering Technician, you will be instrumental in building, operating, and testing propulsion systems that ensure the United States maintains its strategic advantage in modern warfare. Your hands‑on expertise will contribute to the development of high‑performance, scalable 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

• Build, operate, and maintain test systems and infrastructure including test cells and instrumentation packages.
• Perform engine performance testing and calibration.
• Build and rebuild prototype engines for development testing.
• Execute verification and validation test plans of engines and related systems.
• Collaborate with propulsion engineers and test teams to troubleshoot issues and optimize system performance.
• Maintain detailed records of test setups, procedures, and results to support engineering analysis.
• Support short‑term off‑site testing at various test ranges as needed to meet project objectives.

Required Qualifications

• 5 years in related aerospace maintenance or development support role, A&P certificate preferred. Direct engine experience required, aerospace piston or turbine preferred.
• Multi‑talented across overall test ops, understanding of flight test development campaigns and helping to lead the engineering team on requirements.
• Hands‑on experience with prototyping, testing, and iteration of mechanical systems.
• Strong attention to detail and problem‑solving skills, self‑motivated to create solutions.
• Willing to support short‑term off‑site testing at various test ranges.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with small turbine engines or aerospace propulsion systems in a testing or maintenance capacity.
• Familiarity with test cell operations, instrumentation setup, and engine calibration techniques.
• A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) certification or equivalent hands‑on aerospace training.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, schematics, and engineering instructions.
• Experience supporting flight test campaigns or aerospace development programs.

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.

Benefits

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.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

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. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!