Systems Test Engineer

About the role

Stratolaunch is at the forefront of hypersonic technology, focusing on realistic testing at speeds exceeding Mach

5. We utilize our Talon testbeds to provide cost-effective and reusable platforms that facilitate regular access to hypersonic environments. Our goal is to gather critical flight data that supports system performance validation and accelerates technology deployment, contributing to advancements in national security.

We are looking for a Senior or Staff-level Test Engineer to oversee testing for the Talon-A air-launched hypersonic vehicle. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in vehicle integration and testing, collaborating with a diverse engineering team and program management.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Work closely with systems engineers, test team leads, and program management to outline and execute vehicle integration and testing activities.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary engineering group to maintain an up-to-date database of test objectives.
• Ensure that testing processes align with vehicle specifications.
• Engage in test planning, conduct Test Readiness Reviews, execute tests, troubleshoot vehicles, and review data post-testing.
• Design and enhance methodologies for data review, as well as tools for data analysis.
• Understand the interdependencies among various subsystems.
• Establish and uphold standards for test planning and documentation, ensuring compliance.
• Uphold integrity, responsibility, and honesty in all commitments.

Requirements

• Proven experience in small, agile engineering teams where members take on multiple roles.
• Background in testing, including vehicle integration, ground, and flight testing.
• Knowledge of avionics, instrumentation, software, fluid systems, liquid rockets, and structures, prioritized as listed.
• Ability to adapt swiftly to changing priorities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

Skills & tools

• Proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Familiarity with CAD software, preferably Solidworks.
• Experience with configuration management tools like Jira.
• Knowledge of requirement management systems such as Jama, Cameo, or DOORS.

Nice to have

• Experience as a Test Conductor.
• Involvement in systems engineering for major technical reviews, such as System Requirements Review or Critical Design Review.
• Familiarity with maintaining aerospace industry standards for vehicle configurations and modifications.
• Background in air-launched hypersonic vehicle development.
• Skills in technical risk identification and management.
• Experience in defining, managing, and verifying requirements for hypersonic vehicles with hot-structure airframes.
• Current DOD Secret security clearance.

Practical notes

• This position is based in Mojave, CA.
• Travel is expected to be less than 10% to support program needs.

Base salary and leveling are determined on an individual basis, taking into account various factors such as location, educational background, and a comprehensive evaluation of skills and experience demonstrated during the interview process.

• 9/80 work schedule
• Healthcare options (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)
• Paid maternity and parental leave
• 50% company match on 401(k) contributions, up to $11,500
• Tuition reimbursement

This role may require operating company vehicles as part of job responsibilities.

Mojave Air & Spaceport is conveniently located near Lancaster/Palmdale, approximately 95 miles north of Los Angeles. The region offers affordable living and easy access to many of California's attractions. For those who prefer urban life, major cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco are within a half-day drive, providing diverse entertainment, cultural experiences, and dining options.

Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team maintains a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination or harassment throughout the employment process. For certain positions requiring government clearance, U.S. citizenship may be necessary.

About the company

High-speed flight test services form the core work of this American aerospace team. Company roots trace to 2011, created by Paul Allen and Burt Rutan to explore air-launched space transport. Home base is Seattle. Earlier collaboration on SpaceShipOne informed the project. New ownership arrived in 2019 through Cerberus Capital Management. Funding remains private. Operations follow a non-traditional defense contractor model, focusing on test missions and system development under continued private investment.