Propulsion Test Engineer III

BLUE ORIGIN•Van Horn, TX

About The Position

This role is part of Blue Origin’s Engines business unit, which designs, develops, manufactures, and tests engines and propulsion systems. As a member of a small team of propulsion test engineers, you will support hypergolic thruster test operations for launch vehicle programs across multiple spaceflight systems. The work includes test planning and execution, risk identification and mitigation, hardware integration, post-test inspections, data review, and thruster performance analysis, with a focus on safe and repeatable operations. The position is associated with Blue Origin’s West Texas Site in Van Horn, Texas. Eligible employees who permanently relocate there may receive a living allowance and relocation assistance. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

Requirements

At least 5 years of test experience.
Experience executing test procedures.
Familiarity with data analysis.
Ability to lead projects and work independently.
Strong technical fundamentals in fluids and thermodynamics.
Ability to read and interpret engineering standards, technical requirements, and engineering drawings.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to earn trust, maintain positive and professional relationships, and contribute to an inclusive culture.
Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Nice To Haves

M.S. degree or higher in mechanical or aerospace engineering with experimental lab experience.
Experience executing test procedures for hypergolic engines or thrusters.
Experience designing, fabricating, or operating fluid systems.
Knowledge of instrumentation such as pressure transducers, thermocouples, silicon diodes, resistance temperature detectors, and accelerometers.
Hands-on experience integrating test articles and sub-assemblies.
Familiarity with LabVIEW, MATLAB, Winplot, or other control, data acquisition, and reduction software.
Familiarity with CAD applications; ProE or Creo preferred.

Responsibilities

Support thruster test planning and execution, including procedure development, scheduling, and coordination with cross-functional teams.
Identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with hypergolic thruster test operations.
Integrate thruster hardware and sub-assemblies for test campaigns, including hands-on assembly and inspection.
Conduct post-test inspections and document findings to support hardware disposition and test readiness reviews.
Review and analyze test data to evaluate thruster performance and identify trends, anomalies, or improvement areas.
Support thruster performance analysis and contribute to test reports, anomaly investigations, and lessons-learned documentation.
Operate and maintain ground support equipment and fluid systems for test operations.
Collaborate with engineers and technicians to improve test processes, procedures, and safety practices.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
Basic and supplemental life insurance.
Paid parental leave.
Short- and long-term disability.
401(k) with company match of up to 5%.
Education Support Program.
Stock options for regular employees working at least 20 hours per week.
Paid time off of up to four weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours.
Up to 14 company-paid holidays.
Eligible Van Horn employees who permanently relocate may receive a living allowance and relocation assistance.
Depending on role type and job level, employees may be eligible for benefits and bonuses based on company discretion.