Senior Propulsion Test Engineer

Purpose

We're seeking a Senior 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. 

Compensation

At Divergent, our pay range is based on the level of the job. For this role, we will consider candidates at levels E05 - E07 as evaluated through our interview process. 

• E05 / Senior Engineer: $167,724 - $204,995
• E06 / Staff Engineer: $193,708 - $236,744
• E07 / Principal Engineer: $223,741 - $273,458