Propulsion Test Engineer III, Air Force Research Laboratory; AFRL

Application close date:
Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the requisition is closed.

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We’re working to develop reusable, safe, and low‑cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!

This role is part of the Blue Origin Engines business unit, where our focus is the design, development, manufacturing, and testing of engines and propulsion systems. Built for multiple uses, our family of engines is powering the next generation of rockets for commercial, civil, national security, and human spaceflight.

As part of a small, passionate, and accomplished team of propulsion test engineers, you will help drive rocket engines test operations to meet Blue Origin’s launch vehicle program requirements for various spaceflight systems. You will directly contribute to engine test operations by assisting with test planning and execution, risk identification and mitigation, hardware integration for test campaigns, post‑test inspections, data review, and engine performance analysis.

This position will directly impact the history of space exploration and will require your dedicated commitment and detailed attention toward safe and repeatable spaceflight.

• 5+ years relevant experience in an engineering field.
• B.S. degree in engineering discipline (aerospace, mechanical, or systems desired).
• Established professional expertise in an aerospace propulsion/flight testing environment.
• Demonstrated experience in conducting propulsion tests with a track record of safe operations during nominal testing and in response to test anomalies.
• Demonstrated familiarity with reviewing test data and able to clearly identify engine performance characteristics and off‑nominal trends.
• Experienced with providing input to schedule, budget, milestones and/or occasional program technical approval authority.
• Demonstrated expertise in applying technical fundamentals in fluid dynamics and thermodynamics toward data analysis and test stand system design, modifications, and upgrades.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering standards, technical requirements, and engineering drawings including P&'s.
• Ability to earn trust, maintain positive and professional relationships, and contribute to a culture of inclusion.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with proven ability to respectfully challenge decisions where necessary to the benefit of the project.

• M.S. degree or higher in mechanical or aerospace engineering.
• 5+ years of direct experience conducting testing at an aerospace test facility.
• Significant rocket propulsion system or propulsion sub‑component test experience.
• Experience designing, fabricating, or operating fluid systems with little supervision or guidance.
• Direct hands‑on experience with cryogenic fluids such as liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen as well as associated piping systems and components.
• Advanced understanding of how to select, implement, and troubleshoot instrumentation including pressure transducers, thermocouples/RTDs, silicon diodes, resistance temperature detectors, and accelerometers.
• Operational understanding of engines and engine sub‑components, such as turbopumps, combustion devices, valves, and other fluid components.
• Thorough understanding of rocket engine cycles with demonstratable application toward accurate engine health monitoring during test and post‑test data review.
• Familiarity with LabVIEW, MATLAB, Winplot, PCON, Python, or other control, data acquisition, and reduction software.
• Hands‑on experience with fabricating and integrating test articles and sub‑assemblies for test including proper use of all relevant hand tools.
• Seasoned experience with CAD application software such as ProE or Creo (preferred).

• This position will be on‑site at test facilities Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) in Edwards AFB, California.

CA applicants: $ - $. Other site ranges may differ.

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