Principal Propulsion Test Engineer

Torrance, CAfull timeOn Site

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senior

$168k–$205k

H1B: no

Divergent Principal Propulsion Test Engineer to architect, build, and operate propulsion test infrastructure for turbo machinery and jet engines. Own end-to-end development including mechanical structures, fluid systems, instrumentation, controls, commissioning, and test campaigns.

Responsibilities

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.

Qualification

Bachelor's degree in MechanicalDemonstrated experience designingExperience with PLCsFamiliarity with vibration

Required

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

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.