Test Operator

Venusaero; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) plan

Stock options

Medical benefits (Dental & Vision)

Flexible schedule (flex-Friday)

Unlimited PTO

Professional development

Job summary

Venus Aerospace is seeking a Test Operator to be at the center of propulsion and systems testing. You will coordinate test campaigns, operate test stands, and analyze data to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable test execution across propulsion hardware and instrumentation.

You will collaborate with engineers and technicians to troubleshoot and refine procedures, while maintaining high safety standards and compliance for future campaigns.

Qualifications

• 1-3 years in hardware testing environment (rocket-related experience accepted).
• Hands-on with test components: valves, actuators, transducers, gauges.
• Able to read P&IDs and fluid/gas flow paths.
• Perform basic instrumentation tasks: wire cutting, crimping, soldering.
• Read and follow engineering instructions; implement new tools/data methods.
• Strong problem-solving, organization, and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and execute test campaigns including propulsion hot fires and structural tests.
• Operate and monitor test stand systems and instrumentation.
• Lead execution of test procedures; ensure safety and engineering compliance.
• Analyze test data for accuracy and performance; refine procedures.
• Collaborate with technicians to troubleshoot instrumentation issues.

Skills

Hands-on experience

P&ID reading

Instrumentation basics

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Ability to lift 25 lbs

Safety compliance

Data analysis

Problem solving

Documentation

Tools

NI PXIe/cRIO/cDAQ

LabVIEW

MATLAB

Python

Jira/Confluence

CAD/engineering tools

Job description

Who We Are

Venus Aerospace is revolutionizing rocket engine propulsion. With the first generational leap in rocket engine technology since Apollo, our proprietary Rotating Detonation Rocket Engine and Venus Detonation Ramjets deliver historic efficiency and performance across aerospace applications. We are building the next generation of propulsion platforms that enable breakthrough capabilities in space, defense, and commercial high‑speed flight. Our team thrives on solving the toughest engineering challenges and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in aerospace. At Venus, we’re looking for bold engineers and innovators who want to make history and redefine the future of propulsion.

The Role: Test Operator

As a Test Operator, you will be at the center of propulsion and systems testing, ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operations. You’ll collaborate across disciplines and drive continuous improvements in test execution.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and execute test campaigns, including propulsion hot fires, structural, vibration, and thermal testing.


• Operate and monitor test stand systems, propulsion hardware, and instrumentation.


• Lead the execution of test procedures, ensuring compliance with engineering requirements and safety standards.


• Author, review, and refine detailed test procedures and analyze test data for accuracy and performance.


• Collaborate with technicians to troubleshoot instrumentation issues and improve reliability.


• Support setup, upgrades, maintenance, and breakdown of test stands to ensure readiness for future campaigns.


• Act as the key liaison between test, propulsion, manufacturing, and technician teams to ensure smooth test stand operations.


• Implement and maintain end‑to‑end data acquisition systems by authoring and integrating software code, developing the graphical user interface (GUI), and verifying instrument fidelity at company test sites to successfully operate systems and collect performance data.


• Analyze test data in real time using engineering tools and scripts for visualization and evaluation.


• Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to improve hardware configurations, data collection tools and methods, and modify procedures to enhance overall test performance and reliability.


• Work with test technicians and operations teams to continuously improve personnel and hardware safety at the test site through planning and implementation of operational procedures.


• Monitor hardware and instrumentation at the test site and troubleshoot as needed to maintain or improve data fidelity.

Qualifications

• 1 - 3 years of experience in a hardware testing environment. (Nationally recognized rocket club experience is accepted as qualifying hands‑on experience)


• Hands‑on knowledge of test components: valves, pneumatic actuators/solenoids, limit switches, relief valves, pressure transducers, thermocouples, pressure vessels, GUIs/HMIs, and data acquisition systems.


• Ability to read P&IDs and understand the flow of gases and fluids.


• Capable of performing basic instrumentation tasks, including wire cutting, crimping, and soldering.


• Ability to read and follow engineering instructions and independently implement new tools or data collection methods.


• Strong problem‑solving skills, organizational abilities, and attention to detail.


• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or equivalent software.


• Clear communication skills, including over comms devices while operating consoles (computer workstation).


• Ability to thrive both as part of a collaborative team and as a self‑driven individual.


• Comfortable working outdoors as needed; able to lift up to 25 lbs; capable of extended desk/computer work.


• Experience with mechanical and fluid system design.


• Experience with electrical and mechanical fabrication.


• Experience with pressurized gases and liquids up to 6000psia.


• Experience with NI hardware (PXIe, cRIO, cDAQ).


• Experience designing and commissioning new test facilities.


• Experience with GIT repositories and/or JSON file types.


• Experience with LabVIEW.


• Experience with Vizio.


• Experience with python or MATLAB.


• Experience with Confluence or Jira.

Location

On‑site in Houston, TX

Benefits

Venus Aerospace employee benefits include a 401(k) plan, stock options, and medical benefits, including dental and vision. We have a flex‑Friday flexible schedule, unlimited PTO, and receive professional development opportunities.

ITAR Requirements

This position involves access to technology that is subject to U.S. export controls. Any job offer made will be contingent upon the applicant’s capacity to serve in compliance with U.S. export controls. To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), you must be able to meet ITAR requirements (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State). You can learn more about ITAR.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Venus Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. If you have a disability and believe you need a reasonable accommodation, please email [e-mail] or call [phone]. This email and phone number were created exclusively to assist job seekers whose disability prevents them from being able to apply online. Messages or any other purposes, such as following up on an application, third party staffing agencies, website technical issues, or any other issues not related to a disability, will not receive a response. Messages will be returned within five business days.

For additional information about our Equal Opportunity Employment Policy, please visit our EEOP page.