Propulsion Test Engineer — High-Pressure & Cryogenic

Cowboy Space Corporation; Kent (WA); On-site; USD 130,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity in Cowboy Space Corp.

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) retirement savings plan

Paid time off

10 paid holidays per year

Paid parental leave

Relocation assistance if applicable

Daily lunch in the office

Job summary

Cowboy Space Corporation seeks engineers to design and build test stands for propulsion and energy systems, integrating fluids, mechanical, instrumentation, and controls from concept through commissioning.

You will develop P&IDs, troubleshoot live systems, and manage hazardous environments while delivering safe, repeatable test campaigns. Expect independent, owner-driven work in a fast-paced space tech setting.

Qualifications

• 4-8 years of relevant test experience in propulsion, fluids, energetics, or industrial systems with potential high-consequence outcomes.
• First-principles depth in fluids, thermo, and structures for reasoning on whiteboards before tools.
• Experience creating P&IDs and building the systems they describe.
• Experience integrating mechanical and electronic systems and troubleshooting
• Experience with high-pressure or hazardous environments and safety habits.
• Experience writing and operating test procedures.
• Knowledge of data reduction, control sequences, scripting (Python preferred).
• Ability to work independently and document procedures clearly.

Responsibilities

• Design and build fluid, mechanical, instrumentation, and control systems for components, engines, and stages.
• Develop P&IDs from schematic to procurement, fabrication, and checkout.
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot test systems including electrical and software components.
• Safely handle high-pressure and cryogenic systems (LOX, LNG).
• Develop and execute test procedures and risk controls; lead hazard analyses.
• Instrument tests, select sensors, calibrate, capture data, and ensure robust sampling rates.
• Analyze data, identify anomalies, and drive root-cause investigations.
• Manage stand project schedules, including long-lead items.

Skills

Test experience

Fluids & thermodynamics

P&IDs

Electronic system integration

High-pressure safety

Python scripting

Technical writing

Self-direction

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering

Tools

Python

Job description

Cowboy Space Corporation seeks engineers to design and build test stands for propulsion and energy systems, integrating fluids, mechanical, instrumentation, and controls from concept through commissioning.

You will develop P&IDs, troubleshoot live systems, and manage hazardous environments while delivering safe, repeatable test campaigns. Expect independent, owner-driven work in a fast-paced space tech setting.