Propulsion Test/Operations Engineer - Stratolaunch : Job Details

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.

To help achieve these efforts, Stratolaunch ( is seeking a Level-II or Senior-level Propulsion Test/Operations Engineer to support the Talon-A ( hypersonic vehicle propulsion team flight test operations. This position is responsible for a variety of activities, including supporting analysis, reviews, testing, operations, and troubleshooting of the propulsion system. You must be comfortable with component/system development and integration. Ideal candidates will have an aerospace background and relevant experience in aerospace propulsion systems testing and operations.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct test operations as an engineer in the control room and direct others, as required

• Develop and document test requirements, plans, procedures, and reports

• Develop hardware for propulsion test and operations

• Manage propulsion GSE and associated Plumbing and Instrumentation Diagrams

• Conduct propulsion system analyses and studies in support of test activities

• Prepare and support Test Readiness Reviews and post-test Data Reviews

• Assist mechanics in integrating components and assemblies onto the Talon Vehicle

• Test propulsion components and/or assemblies to prepare for integrated ground testing

• Propulsion system troubleshooting

• Develop engineering tools, as needed, to complete tasking

• Regular and comprehensive communication to the Talon-A Propulsion Test/Operations Team Lead

• Travel, as needed, to support the department

• Demonstrate honesty, responsibility, integrity and fulfillment of commitments

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required Qualifications:

• Knowledge of, and experience with, one or more of these disciplines: fluid subsystem design, component or assembly level mechanical or fluid testing, rocket testing, cryogenic fluid systems, electrical and/or instrumentation experience

• Ability to communicate technical challenges and guidance to varied audiences to explain rationale and/or resolve concerns

• Ability to work on their own initiative and prioritize tasking to fit within the business goals

• Ability to quickly adapt to changing priorities

• Ability to perform in high pressure environments

• Experience with propulsion ground testing

• Experience with writing and developing test plans, procedures, and reports

• Experience with instrumentation and component calibration

• Experience with component-level or subsystem level test planning and execution

• Experience with designing ground test hardware

• Experience troubleshooting complex systems

• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience acting as a Test Conductor

• Experience supporting Test Readiness Reviews

• Experience with liquid oxygen systems

• Liquid rocket engine testing experience

• Control Room experience

• Experience creating engineering drawings and work instructions

• Existing security clearance

Required Computer Skills:

• MS Office ( Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook )

• Programming - Matlab or Python

Preferred Computer Skills:

• Computer Aided Design tools - Solidworks

• Programming - Simulink/Simscape

• Familiarity with configuring data acquisition systems - Curtiss-Wright DAS Studio ( preferred )

• Familiarity with configuration management systems - Jira ( preferred )

• IADS experience

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Level II ($80,000-$128,700): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 2-5 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

• Sr. level ($95,700-$153,500): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 5-10 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

• Staff level ($152,500-$200,000): Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 10-20 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable

• Position on-site based in Mojave, CA

• Travel, as needed, to support the department. Travel estimated to be