Propulsion Development Engineer

Team: Engines and Propulsion

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Commitment: Full-time

Workplace Type: onsite

Salary:

About The Role: 

As a Development Engineer on the Propulsion team, you will be responsible for advancing engine hardware through rapid, test-driven iteration. You will operate at the intersection of hardware execution and data analysis, owning engine test campaigns and translating results into actionable engineering improvements.
This role requires strong hands-on capability, analytical rigor, and the ability to move quickly between test operations, data interpretation, and hardware problem-solving. You will play a critical role in increasing engine development velocity and reliability.

Responsibilities

• Own development engine test campaigns from planning through execution and post-test analysis
• Define, author, and refine engine test plans, procedures, and setpoints aligned with program objectives
• Support and make decisions during live test operations, including hot-fire and subsystem testing
• Identify, diagnose, and resolve test-related engine issues across hardware, instrumentation, and procedures
• Standardize and improve test data review, reduction, and reporting processes
• Develop Python-based tools for data processing, visualization, and automated analysis
• Translate test data into clear engineering insights, including performance characterization and root cause analysis
• Drive post-test reviews and ensure actionable outcomes are captured and executed
• Participate in hands-on engine build, integration, and test setup activities
• Author and maintain development engine work instructions, test procedures, and technical documentation
• Generate, track, and resolve engineering issues through ticketing systems
• Collaborate cross-functionally with design, manufacturing, avionics, and test teams to resolve system-level challenges
• Ensure proper sensor selection, instrumentation setup, and data integrity during test campaigns
• Contribute to continuous improvement of test infrastructure, tooling, and development processes

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline
Hands-on experience with hardware build, integration, or test operations
Experience developing or executing engineering test plans and procedures
Proficiency in Python for data analysis and automation
Strong understanding of sensors, instrumentation, and diagnostic techniques

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

Experience with liquid rocket engines or air-breathing propulsion systems
Familiarity with high-speed data acquisition and telemetry systems
Background in thermofluids, combustion, or turbomachinery
Experience operating in fast-paced, iterative hardware development environments
Demonstrated ownership of hardware or test systems through multiple development cycles