Propulsion Test Engineer - Space Station Hardware, Equity & Benefits

Vast; Mojave (CA); On-site; USD 86,000 - 195,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Paid time off

Vacation days (up to 20+)

Parental leave

401(k) retirement plan

Lunch provided on site

Snacks and beverages

Job summary

Vast is seeking a Propulsion Test Engineer in Mojave to support propulsion systems for space station development. You will join a team reporting to the Propulsion Test Manager and lead hot-fire tests, safety‑critical operations, and test stand improvements.

The role requires a bachelor’s in aerospace/mechanical engineering and 2+ years in propulsion or hardware testing, with strong communication and cross‑functional skills. California location and full‑time employment are included.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering or related field.
• 2+ years in operation, design, and development of chemical propulsion and/or fluid systems, or hardware testing.

Responsibilities

• Perform thruster development, acceptance and qualification hot‑fire testing.
• Lead hazardous operations including work with high pressure fluids.
• Write test procedures for hazardous operations.
• Prepare and lead Test Readiness Reviews (TRRs).
• Work with test stand technicians during installation and inspection.
• Maintain and design modifications to test stand fluids and electrical systems.
• Collaborate with Long Beach‑based engineers to meet test requirements and debug issues.

Skills

Propulsion testing

Test execution

Hazardous operations

Test procedures

TRRs (Test Readiness Reviews)

Cross-functional teamwork

Documentation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering

Tools

NX

Teamcenter

Epsilon3

JIRA/Confluence

Beckhoff/TwinCAT

National Instruments/LabVIEW

Job description

Vast is seeking a Propulsion Test Engineer in Mojave to support propulsion systems for space station development. You will join a team reporting to the Propulsion Test Manager and lead hot-fire tests, safety‑critical operations, and test stand improvements.

The role requires a bachelor’s in aerospace/mechanical engineering and 2+ years in propulsion or hardware testing, with strong communication and cross‑functional skills. California location and full‑time employment are included.