Senior Propulsion Components Test Engineer

Relativity Space; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 133,000 - 171,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company at the forefront of aerospace technology! As a Senior Propulsion Components Test Engineer, you'll play a vital role in the development and testing of innovative rocket systems. Your expertise will help shape the future of space exploration, as you design and optimize test procedures, analyze performance data, and improve operational efficiency. Collaborate with a passionate team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of additive manufacturing and rocket technology. This is more than just a job; it's an opportunity to contribute to humanity's journey into interplanetary life. If you're ready to make a significant impact in the aerospace industry, this role is for you.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in engineering with a focus on test procedures.
• Strong understanding of fluid, thermal, mechanical, and electrical engineering.

Responsibilities

• Design and commission new test assets and systems for enhanced capabilities.
• Review and analyze test data for component performance evaluation.

Skills

Engineering Fundamentals

Test Procedure Authoring

Fluid-Mechanical System Design

Failure Investigation

Problem Solving

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering

Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Test Automation Systems

Data Acquisition Systems

Control Systems

Job description

Senior Propulsion Components Test Engineer

Long Beach, California

At Relativity Space, we have two audacious goals: to build the next great commercial launch company with Terran R and to become America's leading force in additive manufacturing innovation. Both contribute to our long-term vision of creating humanity’s industrial base on Mars, paving the way for interplanetary life to expand the possibilities of the human experience. This journey begins right here on Earth – where we design, build, and fly rockets to deliver customer payloads to orbit. Terran R, our medium-to-heavy lift reusable rocket, fulfills the growing demand for launch capacity, thanks to our iterative approach that accelerates design, testing, and development while minimizing costs.

Your journey with us is more than just a job – it’s an opportunity to shape the future of aerospace technology, additive manufacturing, and the human experience alongside a community of passionate, creative individuals. Join us on this extraordinary journey, as we work together to transform our vision into reality.

About the Team:

The mission of the Engine Manufacturing department is to deliver high-performing products and innovative manufacturing systems while driving continuous improvements in cost, quality, and lead time. Through cross-functional collaboration, high levels of accountability, and a focus on safety we play a crucial role in building our reusable rocket, Terran-R. We are responsible for providing design feedback on new hardware iterations, pioneering and implementing advanced manufacturing methods and systems, and ultimately delivering engine and vehicle hardware for testing prior to launch.

About the Role:

• Design & Commission new test assets and systems - incorporating fluid, mechanical, and electrical components – to unlock new capabilities or enhance existing ones.
• Author & Optimize test sequences, procedures, and operational processes to support first-article development and transition into high-volume production.
• Review & Analyze test data to evaluate Terran-R & Aeon-R component performance.
• Define & Standardize operational requirements and processes to improve safety, data quality, and test repeatability.
• Plan & Execute projects that improve test capabilities and operational efficiency in a manner that aligns with the Integrated Master Schedule (IMS).

About You:

• Bachelor’s Degree or higher in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering; or other related discipline.
• 5+ years of relevant technical experience, including (but not limited to):
  • Authoring & Executing Test Procedures
  • Designing & Commissioning Complex Fluid-Mechanical Systems
  • Leading Failure & Anomaly Investigations
• Strong understanding of and ability to apply engineering fundamentals in fluid, thermal, mechanical, and electrical engineering.
• Demonstrated knowledge of safety standards, common test hazards, and appropriate mitigations.
• Ability to find simple, innovative solutions for difficult problems and make critical decisions under pressure.

Nice to haves but not required:

• Familiarity with Industry Test Standards: e.g., SMC-S-016, MIL-STD-1540D, & MIL-STD-810G.
• In-depth knowledge and experience with test automation, data acquisition, and control systems.
• Knowledge of engine components such as pumps, valves, regulators, check valves, as well as electric, pneumatic, and hydraulic valves, actuators, and other fluid system components.
• Desire to work hands-on, as part of a team, in both the development and production phases of a product lifecycle.

At Relativity Space, we are committed to transparency and fairness in our compensation practices. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors.

Hiring Range:

$133,000 - $170,500 USD

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company.