Propulsion Test Engineer

Impulse Space; Mojave (CA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 135,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, vision, and dental coverage

401(k) retirement plan

Long-term incentives in stock options

Job summary

Impulse Space in Mojave is seeking a Propulsion Test Engineer responsible for conducting test operations of liquid rocket propulsion systems. You'll join a fast-paced team focused on spacecraft development and high-rate testing methods.

The role requires a Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, or electrical engineering and at least 2 years of hardware testing experience. This full-time position offers competitive compensation based on experience, alongside potential stock options and comprehensive health coverage.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of professional experience in hardware development testing.
• Strong engineering fundamentals in thermal and structural analysis.
• Hands-on experience with aerospace test facilities.

Responsibilities

• Conduct test operations of liquid rocket propulsion hardware.
• Perform test setup, hardware inspections, and troubleshooting.
• Improve operational efficiency through process upgrades.

Skills

Mechanical engineering principles

Aerospace engineering fundamentals

Fluids analysis

Test stand design and build-up

Education

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or electrical engineering

Tools

Data acquisition systems such as NI or LabVIEW

Job description

Propulsion Test Engineer at Impulse. You will be responsible for liquid rocket propulsion test operations while working closely with a fast paced, agile team that produces high-performance spacecraft from clean sheet designs.

The Propulsion Test Team at Impulse Space is responsible for designing, building, and operating world class test stands to support the development and production of engines and propulsion components that will serve in Impulse’s goal of pioneering the future of in-space transportation. This team is located at the Mojave Air & Space Port which is home to many firsts in air and space development.

Department: Assembly, Integration & Test | Employment Type: Full Time | Location: Mojave | Workplace type: Onsite | Compensation: $95,000 - $135,000 per year.

Responsibilities

• Conduct test operations of liquid rocket propulsion hardware
• Perform test setup, hardware inspections, checkouts and troubleshooting
• Create, modify, and optimize test sequences and procedures
• Improve operational efficiency through process upgrades and implementation of new hardware solutions
• Design and build clean sheet fluid, mechanical and electrical systems in support of high-rate testing
• Resolve technical issues with innovative and resourceful solutions

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, electrical engineering or related field
• 2+ years of professional experience in hardware development testing
• Strong engineering fundamentals in thermal, structural, and fluids analysis
• Prior hands‑on operational experience working with aerospace test facilities
• Demonstrated experience owning test stand design and build-up
• Able to create and clearly communicate fluid P&IDs, electrical and controls schematics
• Able to identify and procure appropriate test equipmentProficient with data acquisition and control methods
• Demonstrated ability of taking project ownership and working well in small teams

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience working with complex systems including cryogenic propellants, high pressure gas systems, hydraulics and/or combustion devices
• Working knowledge of components (valves, regulators, sensors, power supplies) and hands‑on skills (tube fabrication, metalworking, wiring)
• Experience in a startup or agile development environment
• Experience with NI or other data acquisition systems such as LabVIEW

Additional Requirements

• Flexible schedule and willing to travel as needed

Additional Information

Compensation bands are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual level and base pay is determined on a case‑by‑case basis and may vary based on job‑related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities and internal equity. In addition to base salary, for full‑time hires, you may also be eligible for long‑term incentives in the form of stock options, and access to medical, vision and dental coverage as well as a 401(k) retirement plan.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Impulse Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Impulse Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.