Senior Propulsion Test Engineer

ASRC Federal; Edwards (CO); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

ASRC Federal is seeking an experienced Senior Propulsion Test Engineer to support the testing and development of advanced propulsion systems from test buildup through full-scale engine testing.

Location: AFRL Edwards, CA. Requires a DoD Secret clearance, a Bachelor's degree in engineering, and 10+ years in propulsion. You will lead CAD/CAE analyses and mentor junior engineers while coordinating across teams and customers.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years' experience supporting propulsion systems in aerospace/defense.
• Experience with propulsion hardware assembly, testing and integration.
• Proficiency with 3D CAD and engineering analysis tools (FEA/CFD).
• Strong understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, combustion, high- pressure/cryogenic systems, and materials science.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and teamwork abilities.

Responsibilities

• Support propulsion system testing from test stand buildup to full-scale test execution.
• Perform performance analyses to ensure test protocols and safety requirements are met.
• Design propulsion components using CAD and perform structural/thermal analyses (FEA/CFD).
• Coordinate with project teams to keep test stand build activities on schedule.
• Mentor junior engineers and present technical briefings to customers and leadership.
• Evaluate test readiness, support dry runs, and participate on test teams as required.

Skills

Propulsion testing

CAD/CAE

FEA/CFD

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Confluence

Jira

Job description

ASRC Federal is a leading government contractor furthering missions in space, public health and defense. As an Alaska Native owned corporation, our work helps secure an enduring future for our shareholders. Join our team and discover why we are a top veteran employer and Certified Great Place to Work™. Meet our team at our upcoming in-person hiring event! Two locations: Tuesday, August 18 at Hilton Garden Inn Lompoc, CA and Thursday, August 20 at Embassy Suites by Hilton Palmdale, CA

We are seeking an experienced Senior Propulsion Test Engineer to support the testing and development of advanced propulsion systems from test buildup through full-scale engine testing.

Location: Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), Edwards Air Force Base, CA

Clearance: Active Secret or ability to obtain/maintain a clearance.

What You’ll Do

• Support propulsion system testing from test stand buildup through full-scale test execution.
• Perform performance analyses to ensure AFRL test protocols and safety requirements are met.
• Design propulsion components and systems using CAD while performing structural and thermal analyses (FEA/CFD).
• Manage propulsion interfaces to ensure compatibility with vehicle-level architecture.
• Coordinate with project teams to ensure test stand build activities remain on schedule.
• Collaborate with suppliers and internal engineering teams on fabrication, assembly, and process improvements.
• Develop, review, and manage Work Authorizations through completion.
• Evaluate test readiness, support dry runs, and participate on test teams as required.
• Assess test stand structures for safety, quality, and regulatory compliance.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers.
• Present technical briefings to customers, program leadership, and management.
• Support Test Readiness Reviews and customer milestone activities.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• 10+ years of experience supporting propulsion systems, preferably in the aerospace or defense industry.
• Experience with propulsion hardware assembly, testing, troubleshooting, and system integration.
• Proficiency with 3D CAD software and engineering analysis tools (FEA/CFD).
• Strong understanding of:
  • Fluid Dynamics
  • Thermodynamics
  • Combustion
  • High-pressure and cryogenic systems
  • Material science
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build strong working relationships across multidisciplinary teams.

Additional Qualifications

• Experience using Confluence and Jira.
• Ability to work at heights and in confined spaces as required.
• Ability to work in outdoor environments, including extreme heat and cold.
• Willingness to work overtime with limited notice during test operations.
• Valid driver's license and ability to operate company vehicles.

Security Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship required.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret Security Clearance.

Why Join ASRC Federal?

• Support cutting-edge propulsion research at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL).
• Work on advanced technologies that directly support national defense.
• Collaborate with industry-leading engineers and scientists.
• Competitive compensation and benefits.

We invest in the lives of our employees, both in and out of the workplace, by providing competitive pay and benefits packages. Benefits offered may include health care, dental, vision, life insurance; 401(k); education assistance; paid time off including PTO, holidays, and any other paid leave required by law.

The salary offered will depend on several factors including, but not limited to, relevant experience, skills, education, geographic location, internal equity, business needs, and other factors permitted by law. Posted pay ranges are a general guideline only and are not a guarantee of compensation or salary.

EEO Statement

ASRC Federal and its Subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, gender, color, age, sexual orientation, gender identification, national origin, religion, marital status, ancestry, citizenship, disability, protected veteran status, or any other factor prohibited by applicable law.