Sr. Engineer, Propulsion Test

Virgin Galactic•Mojave, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Virgin Galactic is seeking a qualified Senior Test Engineer with electrical system development and qualification testing experience. In this role, you develop and establish requirements and documentation for tests in support of Hybrid Propulsion System installed in Virgin Galactic’s Spaceship Vehicle. The engineer in this position will have responsibility for the definition of equipment, processes, systems, and materials to perform safe, repeatable, and efficient tests. This role is for a hands-on person with great attention to detail and excellent people skills. This is a full-time position at the VG’s aerospace facility in Mojave, California. Partner with a team of engineers, technicians, vendors, and subcontractors while performing systems analysis to double-check existing work, design new systems, prepare and safely conduct critical development and qualification tests.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, with a concentration in a relevant Engineering discipline or physics
8+ years of experience in Data Acquisition and Control Systems (DACS), Instrumentation Engineering, and Electrical Circuit Design
Development of test requirements and procedures for components, subsystems, and integrated rocket engine/stage systems
Knowledge and understanding of Test readiness reviews, issue tracking, resolution, and reporting
Knowledge and understanding of Test control room hierarchy, etiquette, and protocol
Knowledge and understanding of Coordination of multiple support organizations (S&MA, regulatory bodies)
Ground support equipment and high-pressure fluid design and analysis experience
Electronics testing in laboratory environment; strong troubleshooting and data analysis skill required
Strong team player; excellent interpersonal and coaching skills; ability to work successfully with all levels of the organization
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Excellent organizational skills and problem-solving skills
Standard computer skills: Word, Excel, PowerPoint

Nice To Haves

Experience with COPV
Test system development using LabVIEW
Wiring harness design, production, and implementation
5+ years’ experience in liquid or hybrid rocket propulsion development and qualification testing
Experience with the design of flight vehicles or vehicle systems to a set of requirements or standards such as CFR 14, Part 400, Part 23 and 25, military or NASA
Experience with high-performance teams including engineers, production technicians, and ground/flight operations personnel
Fluid and thermodynamic analysis experience
CATIA V5, Matlab, Labview strongly preferred

Responsibilities

Develop and establish requirements and documentation for tests in support of Hybrid Propulsion System installed in Virgin Galactic’s Spaceship Vehicle
Define equipment, processes, systems, and materials to perform safe, repeatable, and efficient tests
Partner with a team of engineers, technicians, vendors, and subcontractors while performing systems analysis to double-check existing work, design new systems, prepare and safely conduct critical development and qualification tests
Coordinate test requirements and develop test procedures
Verify all electrical systems in ground control and test facilities are in good working order, and ensure necessary improvements, maintenance and documentation are in place to support ongoing testing and flight operations
Analyze and plan workforce utilization, space requirements, and workflow, and design layout of equipment and workspace for maximum efficiency
Confer with vendors to determine product specifications, arrange for the purchase of equipment, materials, or parts, and evaluate products according to specifications and quality standards
Estimate fabrication times, staffing requirements, and related costs to provide information for management decisions
Confer with management, engineering, and other staff regarding fabrication capabilities, schedules, and other considerations to facilitate testing activities
Design and implement Data Acquisition and Control System (DACS) for the test stand and for lab testing