Mechanical Test Engineer III

Mechanical Test Engineer III – Blue Origin

Join our team at Blue Origin, a company dedicated to developing reusable, safe, and low‑cost space vehicles for a future where millions inhabit and work in space. This role supports the Space Resources Program at our Los Angeles facility and is part of Advanced Concepts & Enterprise Engineering (ACE). We’re seeking a highly skilled Test Engineer III who brings technical expertise, leadership, and a commitment to quality to ensure safe human spaceflight.

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

• Lead development, documentation, and updates of test procedures, SOPs, JHAs, and detailed test plans to ensure operational excellence and compliance with safety standards.
• Own test setup, operation, and maintenance of environmental test systems, primarily vacuum chambers, for integrated testing of high‑power and high‑temperature systems under vacuum conditions.
• Design and assemble hardware fixtures, operate data acquisition devices, and select appropriate fittings to support a variety of unique tests.
• Troubleshoot custom and commercial control systems, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of test operations.
• Conduct and lead Test Readiness Reviews to ensure all systems/subsystems meet testing requirements and document the process meticulously.
• Oversee installation, operation, and maintenance of instruments and equipment, ensuring project and safety standards are met.
• Ensure laboratory vacuum chamber experiments comply with Environmental Health & Safety standards.
• Collaborate closely with the team to deliver scalable solutions in fast‑paced design, analysis, and construction cycles, prioritizing safety, quality, and innovation.
• Manage laboratory chemical waste and coordinate proper disposal procedures with Environmental Health & Safety departments.
• Provide comprehensive documentation and reports on test results, methodologies, and issues encountered during testing.
• Mentor and guide team members in test operation and safety procedures.

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, or a related field.
• 3+ years of hands‑on laboratory experience with an emphasis on vacuum chamber operations, flight hardware, and fast‑paced test operation.
• Demonstrated experience developing, operating, and maintaining large vacuum chambers for integrated testing.
• Ability to plan and execute assembly and disassembly sequences and commissioning.
• Advanced proficiency in drafting and updating SOPs, JHAs, and detailed documentation for test procedures.
• Significant experience conducting Test Readiness Reviews and managing data acquisition devices.
• CAD design and fabrication experience for custom test support fixtures.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting, calibration, and maintenance of a variety of laboratory instruments and equipment.
• Familiarity with safety standards applicable to laboratory vacuum chamber experiments and a proven record of ensuring compliance.
• Excellent communication skills, attention to detail, strong problem‑solving abilities, and team‑oriented.
• Experience with post‑flight and post‑test analysis and presentation of results to wider engineering teams.
• Demonstrate proficiency in using DAQ software and modifying the code as needed.
• Ability to lift or move heavy equipment up to 40 lbs as needed.

• Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, related engineering fields, or physics.
• Experience designing mechanical systems and mechanisms.
• Experience with high‑temperature material and thermal analysis.
• Ability to modify code in Python and C as needed.
• Experience with In‑Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) systems and typical aerospace systems.
• Demonstrated experience with environmental testing regulations for space missions.
• Relevant certifications in safety, hazardous materials handling, or vacuum chamber operations.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and work successfully across multiple disciplines.

$ – $

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