Propulsion Test Responsible Engineer II

About the role

The Propulsion Test Responsible Engineer II is a critical position within the Engine Systems and Test team at Relativity, focused on the oversight of integrated engine assembly testing for the Terran R vehicle. This role is responsible for managing the full lifecycle of test campaigns, ensuring that propulsion systems meet stringent safety and performance standards. You will serve as the primary technical lead coordinating test activities, driving execution, and delivering reliable results that advance our launch capabilities. The position requires a blend of technical depth and operational leadership to own test objectives from initial planning through final analysis and documentation. You will be a key contributor to defining the future of propulsion testing and certification for our launch vehicle program.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Develop test plans and lead execution campaigns alongside the Stennis team, coordinating activities to ensure alignment with project objectives and certification requirements.
• Manage exploratory operations for new and existing test hardware to support certification, including setup, validation, and controlled execution of test campaigns.
• Write test sequences, analyze data, and perform hands-on hardware work to validate system performance and identify root causes of anomalies.
• Operate console during hotfire tests and design necessary test tooling to support test objectives, data acquisition, and safety protocols.
• Perform systems analysis, subsystem troubleshooting, and trade studies to evaluate performance, reliability, and compliance with requirements.
• Define objectives and concepts of operations for stage testing and future flight campaigns, translating high-level goals into executable test strategies.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with project goals and timelines, facilitating collaboration across engineering and test organizations.
• Implement and refine testing procedures to improve efficiency, accuracy, and repeatability across test campaigns.
• Monitor test results to identify anomalies and drive corrective actions in collaboration with design and manufacturing teams.
• Support the development of test infrastructure and facility requirements to enable future test campaigns and scalability.
• Conduct design reviews and risk assessments for test operations to mitigate technical and schedule risks.
• Document all test activities and results for compliance, traceability, and knowledge retention, supporting audits and certification activities.

Requirements

• Bachelor degree in a STEM field, providing foundational technical knowledge essential for advanced propulsion testing.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in complex engineering system development or testing, demonstrating proven execution in demanding technical environments.
• Proficiency in thermodynamics and fluid mechanics fundamentals, critical for analyzing propulsion system behavior and performance.
• Proven ability to lead projects to completion under aggressive timelines, managing priorities and resources effectively.
• Capability to work in a collaborative, cross-functional environment, engaging with teams such as design, manufacturing, and operations.
• Strong understanding of propulsion systems and testing methodologies, including test planning, execution, and data interpretation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to convey technical information clearly and concisely to diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to interpret technical documents and specifications, ensuring test activities comply with requirements and standards.

Nice to have

• Prior exposure to test operations, including setup, execution, and data review in a test facility environment.
• Practical knowledge of heat exchangers, valves, combustion devices, or instrumentation relevant to propulsion testing and system diagnostics.

Skills & tools

• Technical problem-solving to address complex issues and implement effective solutions during test campaigns.
• Data analysis to interpret test results, validate performance, and support decision-making.
• Test sequence development to create robust and executable test procedures and command scripts.
• Engineering systems simulation to evaluate system behavior and support test planning and troubleshooting.

Practical notes

• Salary range: $104,000 to $156,000 USD.
• Expect 25 percent travel to launch and test sites, requiring flexibility and adaptability to field environments.
• Role requires rotating 1st and 2nd shift schedules and occasional weekend work for critical milestones, ensuring continuity of test operations.
• Benefits include equity, PTO, sick leave, parental leave, and a learning and development stipend to support professional growth.
• For accommodation requests, contact accommodations@relativityspace.com.