Test Engineer II

About the Team

As a Test Engineer in Antares’ Test Engineering team, you will design, build, and own test infrastructure for our R1 microreactor. You will develop end-to-end test plans - from concept to data analysis - for components and subsystems spanning heat rejection, power distribution, thermal management, and mechanical systems.

You will help develop and document our testing best practices, requirements, and workflows to enable rapid iteration and high-quality data.

You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure that prototype, development, and qualification hardware is designed with respect to a test plan that validates critical features and performance parameters. You will design, validate, and maintain test setups to ensure the required precision and accuracy.

• Architect, build, and employ bespoke test stands and rigs for heat pipe components and assemblies
• Develop comprehensive test plans and protocols: instrumentation, execution steps, pass/fail criteria, and data analysis workflows
• Build test schedules and ensure alignment with development and business needs
• Lead test design and readiness reviews and communicate approach and results with stakeholders
• Validate measurement precision and accuracy; procure or design specialized fixtures and sensors as needed
• Create schematics and CAD models of test setups and facilities
• Define standard processes and workflows for prototype, qualification, and production-grade testing
• Provide subject matter expertise on test methods, including mentoring teammates
• Participate in root cause investigations and implement corrective actions to prevent repeat failure

• Bachelor’s degree in physics or an engineering discipline
• 2+ years of hands‑on test engineering experience
• Experience designing assemblies and test fixtures using CAD
• Experience integrating and using test instrumentation (pressure transducers, thermocouples, strain gauges, relays, solenoid valves, etc.)

• Master’s degree or higher in mechanical or aerospace engineering
• Experience designing and building test rigs and executing thermal and mechanical tests
• Experience with LabVIEW, Simulink, or similar test software
• Experience testing thermal management or heat‑rejection systems, or vacuum‑relevant components
• Experience in mechanical, durability, or materials testing
• Leadership experience on a project or research team
• Strong project management and cross-disciplinary communication skills
• Demonstrated track record of high-impact technical contributions
• Experience with part inspection technologies (micrometers, CMM, white light scanning, etc.)
• Knowledge of PLM, ERP, and related manufacturing systems
• Strong Python or general programming experience

• Ability to work long hours and weekends as necessary to support critical milestones
• Ability to lift 25 lbs; role may require standing, climbing, bending, grasping, sitting, pulling, pushing, stooping, stretching, and carrying

We are located in Torrance, CA in a 322,000 square foot, brand new facility featuring large open spaces for team collaboration, R&D, and production.

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen or national, a U.S. lawful permanent resident, a refugee, or an asylee, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR.

$112K - $150K Offers Equity

As a growing Series B startup, the salary range is intentionally wide as we determine the most appropriate package for each individual, taking into consideration years of experience, educational background, and unique skills and abilities as demonstrated throughout the interview process. Our intent is to offer a salary that is commensurate for the company’s current stage of development and allows the employee to grow and develop within a role.

In addition to the significant stock option package, the estimated salary range for this role is posted.

Antares is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are based solely on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.