Propulsion Test Engineer

About Frontier Aerospace Corporation

Frontier Aerospace Corporation conceptualizes, designs, proves, and additively manufactures in-space and launch system rocket propulsion thrusters. From concept ideation to product development to qualification testing to customer delivery, we have a proven philosophy and the in‑house resources necessary to design, build, test, and deliver reliable, high‑performance liquid propellant thrusters for our nation’s critical in‑space, commercial, civilian, and defense applications. Whether they are used for attitude control, orbit transfer, lunar and exo‑moon landing, deep‑space missions, or high‑thrust divert systems, Frontier’s thrusters meet the most demanding requirements.

Our customers are hungry for a propulsion supplier who can reliably meet their requirements and who is responsive to their needs. Frontier’s mission is to do just that, by advancing breakthrough propulsion technologies and providing industry‑leading customer responsiveness. Ultimately, it’s our fantastic team of dedicated professionals and hard‑working tradespeople who make this a reality. As a small, but rapidly growing company, there are many opportunities for our team members to grow and take on new and exciting responsibilities – to be more than just another worker.

Come make a difference and share in our success!

Come join our growing team where you will get to make a difference daily by continuing to help build our reputation for quality, responsiveness, and the ability to handle complex products. We have an exciting opportunity for Propulsion Test Engineer. The successful candidate will 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.

The role also involves performing analyses related to safety, reliability, maintainability, and testability, ensuring all systems meet operational and security standards.

This position is in office in Newbury Park, CA and Victorville, CA.

• Author test plans and lead hot‑fire tests through various steps of thruster qualification
• Ensure successful test readiness reviews, both internal and customer facing
• Specify and install instrumentation on test assets for data acquisition
• Create documentation including test procedures, interface definitions, and work instructions
• Gain familiarity and drive continuous improvement of operational handling and checkout procedures
• Employ various analysis, modeling, and simulation tools to analyze test data

• Develop and maintain Plumbing and Instrumentation Diagrams for existing and future test stands
• Utilize and apply first principles reasoning to troubleshoot unforeseen issues
• Perform test setup, hardware inspections, leak checks and troubleshooting as needed
• Resolve technical issues with innovative and resourceful solutions

• Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in electrical, mechanical, or aerospace engineering or related technical field of study

• 3+ years of experience working with liquid propulsion systems
• Proven understanding of liquid propulsion concepts and testing methods
• Professional experience in thruster testing through qualification and flight
• Demonstrated ability to work safely around energetic and hazardous systems
• Ability to effectively articulate technical challenges provide a clear rationale for decisions and address related concerns
• Excellent documentation and communication skills
• Ability to operate systems using a Plumbing and Instrumentation Diagrams
• Thorough understanding of fluid mechanics concepts
• General understanding of data acquisition systems, sensors, and effectors

• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements
• Must be available to work extended hours, weekends, and shifts, which varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility required

• Prior experience in aerospace testing and/or vacuum systems
• Any relevant CFD experience (Ansys Fluent, Open Foam, Auto Desk CFD)
• Experience in reviewing and analyzing…