Propulsion Test Operations Engineer

Impulse Space•Mojave, CA

42d•$110,000 - $140,000•Onsite

About The Position

As a Propulsion Test Operations Engineer at Impulse, you will be responsible for operating propulsion test facilities at Impulse’s Propulsion Test Facility in Mojave, California. You’ll have the opportunity to work with test stands supporting methane/liquid oxygen and ethane/nitrous propulsion systems, high energy components, and integrated stages. This role spans every phase of engine testing – from developing procedures and configuring test hardware to directing console operations, analyzing performance data, and improving future test campaigns.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline
1+ years of experience designing, operating, maintaining, or commissioning complex mechanical or fluid systems
Fundamental understanding of mechanical systems, fluid systems, thermodynamics, or propulsion engineering

Nice To Haves

3+ years of engineering experience
Strong engineering fundamentals in Thermal Fluid Systems
Familiarity with methane/liquid oxygen, liquid oxygen, liquid methane, or other cryogenic fluid systems
Knowledge of instrumentation including pressure transducers, thermocouples, flow meters, load cells, valves, and data acquisition systems
Ability to interpret engineering drawings, P&IDs, and electrical schematics
Strong troubleshooting skills with multidisciplinary mechanical, electrical, software, and fluid systems
Excellent communication skills with the ability to perform effectively during high-intensity test operations

Responsibilities

Serve as a console operator during test campaigns, monitoring engine and facility systems and making informed real-time operational decisions to ensure safe and successful test execution
Plan and execute development, qualification, and acceptance tests for liquid rocket propulsion systems
Develop detailed test procedures, operational timelines, and configuration documentation to safely execute propulsion testing
Configure and verify readiness of propulsion hardware, test stands, fluid systems, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems prior to testing
Develop and improve operational procedures, automation sequences, and test workflows to increase safety, reliability, and test cadence
Collaborate with design engineers to incorporate lessons learned into future engine, facility, and ground support equipment designs
Participate in pre-test readiness reviews, hazard assessments, and post-test technical reviews
Maintain a strong commitment to operational discipline, personnel safety, and continuous process improvement