Principal Propulsion Test Engineer

Purpose

We're seeking a Principal Propulsion Test Engineer to architect, build, and operate world-class propulsion test infrastructure that accelerates the development of next-generation turbo machinery and jet engines. From an empty test bay to first fire, you'll own the end-to-end development of propulsion test capability—designing mechanical structures, integrating high-pressure fluid systems, implementing instrumentation and controls, commissioning the facility, and ultimately leading propulsion test campaigns. 

This is a highly hands-on role for an engineer who is equally comfortable designing structural hardware, specifying instrumentation, commissioning fluid systems, and troubleshooting on the test floor. You'll work closely with EH&S, Performance Engineering, Software, and external partners to transform ambitious testing objectives into safe, repeatable, and data-rich test campaigns that generate flight-critical insight. 

As our propulsion programs evolve, you'll continuously improve and automate test operations, increasing throughput, data quality, and operational efficiency while fostering a culture of ownership, safety, and technical excellence. 

This is an onsite position supporting propulsion development and recurring engine testing. 

The Role

• Deliver fully operational propulsion test stands from concept through commissioning, owning the mechanical, fluid, controls, and instrumentation systems required for safe, repeatable engine testing. 
• Build robust, flight-ready test infrastructure by designing structural hardware, high-pressure fluid systems, and facility equipment that meets demanding propulsion testing requirements. 
• Coordinate test readiness reviews, including, safety, instrumentation, and limits review in preparation for test events 
• Deliver high-fidelity test data by architecting and integrating instrumentation, DAQ, and control systems that provide reliable, flight-critical measurements for propulsion performance evaluation. 
• Commission and operate propulsion test systems by leading assembly, first-flow activation, shakedown testing, operating procedure development, and safe execution of engine test campaigns. 
• Drive propulsion test execution and technical insight by partnering with Performance Engineering to analyze results, benchmark engine performance, and resolve technical issues through root-cause investigation. 
• Continuously improve test capability by automating test operations, increasing reliability and throughput, and evolving infrastructure to accelerate propulsion development in alignment with the DAPS philosophy. 

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline. 
• Demonstrated experience designing, building, commissioning, and operating complex propulsion or mechanical test systems, including hands-on integration, troubleshooting, and test execution. 
• Excellent ability to collaborate with technical and functional teams in prior to and during test events. 
• Strong technical foundation in high-pressure fluid systems, instrumentation, and high-speed data acquisition, including pressure system design, sensor integration, signal conditioning, and development of reliable, high-fidelity test data systems in accordance with ASME B31.3 or equivalent engineering standards. 
• Ability to lawfully access information and technology subject to U.S. export controls. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Direct experience testing turbo machinery, gas turbines, or jet engines. 
• Strong understanding of propulsion test planning, test execution, data acquisition, and performance analysis. 
• Experience with advanced sensing technologies, including fiber optic instrumentation. 
• Experience with PLCs, industrial controls, automation, or integrated test control systems. 
• Familiarity with vibration, NVH, and propulsion performance characterization. 
• Experience working in fast-paced R&D or first-of-a-kind hardware development environments. 
• A builder's mindset—you naturally envision how to transform an empty space into a safe, efficient, and highly capable propulsion test facility. 
• Collaborative leadership style with a track record of enabling multidisciplinary teams to deliver complex technical systems. 

Work Environment

• This is a hands-on, onsite role supporting propulsion test stand construction, commissioning, and recurring engine testing. 
• Regular exposure to high-pressure fluid systems, aviation fuels and active propulsion testing. 
• Close collaboration with Performance Engineering, Software Engineering, manufacturing teams, and external engineering partners to rapidly develop and improve propulsion test capability.