GSE Test Engineer II - Advanced Programs

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and autonomy beyond Earth orbit. Our Ranger spacecraft deliver high delta-V and sustained on-orbit maneuverability, enabling missions across cislunar and geostationary space that were previously out of reach. We are building the vehicles, infrastructure, and operational expertise that connect and protect assets across the Earth–Moon system.

Quantum Space is seeking a Senior Test Engineer focused on Ground Support Equipment (GSE) and vacuum test systems to enable in‑house development and validation of electric propulsion (EP) technologies.

This role is built for an engineer who can design and build test infrastructure and operate it, someone equally comfortable developing GSE, working hands‑on in a vacuum chamber, and running propulsion test campaigns. You will play a critical role in establishing and scaling our internal EP test capability.

• Design and develop GSE and test infrastructure for electric propulsion systems (thrusters, feed systems, support equipment)
• Own vacuum chamber test setups: integration, configuration, and operation for EP testing
• Define test system requirements including vacuum performance, thermal constraints, instrumentation, and safety systems
• Lead build, integration, and commissioning of propulsion test setups
• Develop and execute EP test campaigns: setup, operation, data collection, and troubleshooting
• Operate and maintain vacuum systems: pumps (turbo, cryo, roughing), valves, gauges, and support equipment
• Troubleshoot vacuum performance issues including leaks, contamination, and system instability
• Design and implement instrumentation and data acquisition systems for propulsion testing
• Develop test procedures, safety documentation, and operational workflows
• Collaborate with propulsion, mechanical, electrical, and AI&T teams to ensure test readiness and data quality

• BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related technical field
• 5–10+ years of experience with test systems, GSE, or propulsion testing
• Strong experience designing and building test equipment (not just operating it)
• Hands‑on experience with vacuum systems and vacuum chamber operations
• Experience supporting or running test campaigns (setup → execution → troubleshooting)
• Strong understanding of mechanical systems, fluid systems, and controls
• Proven ability to troubleshoot complex system‑level issues in a test environment
• Comfortable working hands‑on in lab/test settings
• Work location within the LA area

• Direct experience with electric propulsion
• Experience with thermal vacuum or propulsion vacuum testing
• Familiarity with LabVIEW, PLCs, or custom data acquisition systems
• Experience with high‑voltage systems associated with EP testing
• Experience with gas delivery systems
• Familiarity with contamination control and vacuum materials compatibility

• Ownership – Build and operate in‑house propulsion test capability
• Impact – Direct contribution to core spacecraft propulsion technology
• Growth – Path to test architecture or propulsion test leadership
• Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits

Hawthorne, CA

$125,000 to $180,000 Annual Salary Depending on Experience

To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain required authorizations.