Propulsion Test Stand Engineer — Concept to First Ignition

Astra Space Inc.; Alameda (CA); On-site; USD 160,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401K plan

Equity in package

Lunch provided

Job summary

Astra Space Inc. is seeking a development test engineer to own propulsion and fluid systems test stands from concept to first ignition. You will design P&ID, select hardware, fabricate, and lead tests under hazardous conditions.

Expect active problem solving, documentation, and collaboration with test teams in a high-stakes aerospace environment. Five-plus years in test engineering or aerospace GSE, with experience in high-pressure fluids and cryogenics, plus DAQ scripting, are required.

Qualifications

• 5+ years hands-on experience in test engineering, propulsion, or aerospace GSE.
• Experience with high-pressure fluids, cryogenics, or propellant handling.
• Proficient with DAQ hardware (NI, Beckhoff, or equivalent) and basic scripting for data acquisition.
• Able to read and mark up mechanical drawings.

Responsibilities

• Design and build test infrastructure for propulsion, fluids, and mechanical systems, including pressurization circuits and test rigs.
• Develop and own P&IDs from scratch.
• Select valves, transducers, meters, relief devices, and structural hardware.
• Fabricate, fit, and assemble fluid system hardware.
• Troubleshoot and repair under pressure during active test campaigns.
• Write, review, and execute test procedures for hazardous operations including cryogenics and high-pressure gas.
• Commission new test stands from cold iron to first ignition.
• Support test operations as console operator, test conductor, or stand crew.

Skills

Test engineering

Propulsion systems

Aerospace GSE

DAQ hardware

Mechanical drawings

Tools

NI DAQ

Beckhoff

P&ID development

Job description

Astra Space Inc. is seeking a development test engineer to own propulsion and fluid systems test stands from concept to first ignition. You will design P&ID, select hardware, fabricate, and lead tests under hazardous conditions.

Expect active problem solving, documentation, and collaboration with test teams in a high-stakes aerospace environment. Five-plus years in test engineering or aerospace GSE, with experience in high-pressure fluids and cryogenics, plus DAQ scripting, are required.