Propulsion Test Engineer & Technical Lead

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc.; Auburn Hills (MI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. is seeking a Test Engineer to lead the planning, execution, analysis, and reporting of propulsion system testing across development, acceptance, qualification, and customer-driven programs.

You will own test activities from concept through final reporting, ensuring data integrity, safety, compliance, and customer confidence, while coordinating with R&D, Design and Product Engineering, and manufacturing teams to deliver reliable results.

Qualifications

• Develop and approve test plans, procedures, and reports for development, acceptance, and qualification testing.
• Define test objectives, success criteria, instrumentation requirements, and data acquisition needs.
• Ensure test documentation aligns with customer requirements, AS9100D, and internal standards.
• Lead and support Test Readiness Reviews (TRRs) and technical reviews.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute test events in ground test cells, development rigs, and customer environments.
• Provide real-time technical oversight during test execution, including anomaly assessment and decision-making.
• Coordinate test schedules, facilities, and cross-functional resources.
• Serve as the final technical authority during test execution.
• Provide day-to-day technical direction and prioritization for Engineering Technicians reporting into Test.
• Assign and coordinate technician activities across test setup, instrumentation, and teardown; diagnostics and troubleshooting; engine balancing and vibration work; data collection and configuration verification.

Skills

Test planning

Data analysis

Leadership

Cross-functional coordination

Job description

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. is seeking a Test Engineer to lead the planning, execution, analysis, and reporting of propulsion system testing across development, acceptance, qualification, and customer-driven programs.

You will own test activities from concept through final reporting, ensuring data integrity, safety, compliance, and customer confidence, while coordinating with R&D, Design and Product Engineering, and manufacturing teams to deliver reliable results.