Propulsion Test Engineer

Mach Industries • San Luis Obispo, CA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of their mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. Their vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security, dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security. Mach Industries is seeking a Propulsion Test Engineer to support the calibration and testing of advanced small engine systems for the next generation of airborne defense platforms. In this pivotal role, you will ensure the performance, reliability, and manufacturability of propulsion systems, helping to maintain the United States’ strategic edge in modern warfare. Your expertise will drive the development and validation of high-performance engines that power autonomous defense platforms. Mach Propulsion is redefining the small turbine engine—designing for high-rate production, scalability, modularity, and adaptability. This is a chance to shape a new kind of propulsion company, one built around modern, automated manufacturing to deliver capable engines at meaningful volumes. In this role, you will collaborate with a multidisciplinary engineering team to create high-performance, manufacturable systems that meet demanding mission requirements.

Requirements

• 2+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, with a focus on engine systems, drivetrain, or complex mechanical systems, emphasis on test preferred. 5 years in related aerospace experience without degree.
• Multi-talented across overall test ops, understanding of flight test development campaigns and helping to lead the engineering team on requirements.
• Proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., NX, SolidWorks) and experience with engineering analysis tools (e.g., FEA, CFD).
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with prototyping, testing, and iteration of mechanical systems.
• Willing to support short-term off-site testing at various test ranges.

Nice To Haves

• Experience testing small turbine engines or propulsion systems for aerospace or defense applications.
• Familiarity with test cell design, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems for propulsion testing.
• Knowledge of flight test campaigns and aerospace validation processes.
• Experience with control systems development for high-precision testing environments.
• Understanding of defense industry standards for propulsion system testing and certification.

Responsibilities

• Create test systems and infrastructure including test cells and instrumentation packages.
• Develop control systems for test cells maintaining high accuracy and quality of data reported.
• Execute verification and validation test plans of engines and related systems.
• Assist in assembly, integration, and testing activities for first articles and first flight assets.
• Collaborate with propulsion design, systems integration, and manufacturing teams to ensure test results inform system optimization.
• Analyze test data to validate engine performance, identify anomalies, and recommend improvements.
• Support short-term off-site testing at various test ranges as needed to meet project milestones.

Benefits

• health insurance
• retirement plans
• opportunities for professional development
• Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees