Test Technician

Venusaero; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) plan

Stock options

Medical benefits (dental/vision)

Job summary

Venus Aerospace in Houston, TX, is seeking a Test Technician to advance hypersonic vehicle development through hands-on testing, test-stand support, and troubleshooting. You’ll work with propulsion and structures tests, read P&ID, and handle instrumentation checks in a fast-paced, safety-first environment.

The role requires 4+ years of relevant experience, fabrication skills, and familiarity with Hazmat procedures.

Qualifications

• 4+ years relevant experience.
• Fabrication experience including seamless tube bending and flaring, metal fabrication, precision drilling, and cleaning.
• Ability to read and understand a P&ID and system function.
• Instrumentation experience—sensor troubleshooting, wiring harnessing, soldering, crimping.
• Proficient with pumps and boosters (vacuum, hydrostatic, pneumatic).
• Operational experience with forklift, sky track, boom lift, and scissor lift.
• Clear communication over devices.
• Troubleshooting mechanical and electrical issues.
• Hazmat protocols for hazardous chemicals and waste.

Responsibilities

• Participate in test activities for hypersonic vehicle development.
• Test propulsion engine, structures, instrumentation checkouts, etc.
• Support set-up, breakdown, upgrades, and maintenance of test stands.
• Assist with additional test and operational activities as required.
• Support testing outside at Ellington Airport for extended periods.
• Operate safely and follow all safety guidelines.

Skills

Test tech experience

Fabrication & metalwork

P&ID reading

Instrumentation troubleshooting

Pumps & boosters operation

Hazmat safety

Forklift/boom lift

Communication skills

A&P Certification

ITAR awareness

Education

A&P Certification

Tools

Test stands & equipment

GSE fabrication 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 Technician

As a Test Technician, you’ll help drive hypersonic vehicle development through hands‑on testing, test‑stand support, and troubleshooting. This role is perfect for skilled technicians with fabrication and instrumentation experience who thrive in fast‑paced, safety‑first environments.

Responsibilities

• Participate in test activities that lead to the development of a hypersonic vehicle.
• Testing over a broad range of tests including propulsion engine, structures, instrumentation checkouts, etc.
• Support set‑up, breakdown, upgrades, and maintenance of test stands.
• Assist with additional test and operational activities as required.
• Support testing outside, located at Ellington Airport for extended periods of time.
• Operate in a safe manner and adhere to all safety guidelines.
• 4+ years relevant experience.
• Fabrication experience such as seamless tube bending and flaring, metal fabrication, precision drilling, and precision cleaning, etc. (Need to know the exact use cases for tools and how to choose the right approach to each job).
• Ability to read and understand a P&ID (Blue Print) and understand a systems function.
• Instrumentation experience such as troubleshooting sensors, wire routing/harnessing, soldering, and crimping, etc.
• Proficiency in operating and maintaining pumps and boosters of all types — vacuum, hydrostatic, and pneumatic.
• Operational experience with forklift, sky track, boom lift, and scissor lift.
• Ability to communicate clearly and proficiently over communication devices.
• Troubleshooting skills for mechanical and electrical issues.
• Ability to follow Hazmat protocols in dealing with hazardous chemicals and waste.
• Capable of safely lifting up to 40 lbs.
• Technical expertise with R&D test operations which includes building, maintaining, and operating test stands: engine test, structural test, flow test, etc.
• GSE fabrication.
• Familiarity with propulsion systems.
• A&P Certification.
• Experience with pressurized gasses and liquids up to 6000 psia.
• Bring a strong work ethic and positive attitude. We face complex problems daily and seek teammates who bring solutions and positivity to the effort.

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 Employment

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