Senior Propulsion Test Engineer | Hybrid Rocket Systems

Virgin Galactic; Mojave (CA); On-site; USD 143,000 - 218,000; Full time

Job summary

Virgin Galactic is seeking a qualified Senior Test Engineer with propulsion development and qualification testing experience for our Mojave, California facility. You will define equipment, processes, and documentation to perform safe, repeatable tests on the Hybrid Propulsion System installed in Virgin Galactic’s Spaceship Vehicle.

This hands-on role requires attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work across teams to ensure test readiness, data analysis, and reporting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or physics required
• 8+ years of related experience in propulsion development and testing
• Experience with liquid or hybrid rocket propulsion development and qualification testing
• Development of test requirements and procedures for components, subsystems, and engine/stage systems
• Test readiness reviews, issue tracking, and reporting
• Data analysis of test data and reporting
• Coordination with multiple support organizations (SMA, regulatory bodies)
• Ground support equipment design and analysis experience
• Excellent verbal and written communication
• Ability to interact with all levels of the organization

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with engineers, technicians, vendors, and subcontractors to plan and conduct critical development and qualification tests
• Coordinate test requirements and develop test procedures
• Manage test site activities and operation of GSE for hybrid rocket motor and stage systems
• Ensure GSE is maintained and documented for ongoing testing and flight operations
• Analyze work flow and optimize equipment layout for efficiency
• Support test operations as well as propulsion design and production activities
• Coordinate with vendors to define product specs and procure equipment
• Analyze test data and prepare reports and presentations
• Estimate fabrication times, staffing, and costs for management decisions

Skills

Team player

Verbal communication

Written communication

Interpersonal skills

Problem solving

Organizational skills

Attention to detail

Data analysis

Cross-functional collaboration

Physical stamina

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Physics

Tools

GSE - Ground Test Support Equipment

Data analysis tools

Job description

Virgin Galactic is seeking a qualified Senior Test Engineer with propulsion development and qualification testing experience for our Mojave, California facility. You will define equipment, processes, and documentation to perform safe, repeatable tests on the Hybrid Propulsion System installed in Virgin Galactic’s Spaceship Vehicle.

This hands-on role requires attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work across teams to ensure test readiness, data analysis, and reporting.