Development Test Engineer IIThe Development Test Engineer II at Impulse will lead the planning, execution, and analysis of tests critical to validating next-generation in-space mobility systems. This role is highly cross-functional, interfacing with design, analysis, manufacturing, and operations teams to ensure products meet performance, safety, and reliability requirements. The ideal candidate combines strong engineering fundamentals with hands-on test experience in a fast-paced development environment. This position plays a key role in maturing early-stage designs into flight-ready hardware.ResponsibilitiesDesign, build, and commission test fixtures for fluid, cryogenic, high-pressure, cyclic, environmental, mechanical, and structural testingExecute tests safely and efficiently, including setup, operations, and troubleshooting during live test eventsStrong problem-solving and troubleshooting capabilitiesWork closely with design and manufacturing teams to ensure testability and rapid feedback cyclesExcellent technical writing and documentation skillsMinimum Qualifications3+ years' experience testing aerospace or spaceflight hardware (propulsion systems, structures, mechanisms, avionics)Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical, or related engineering disciplineA demonstrated understanding of mechanical, propulsion, fluid, or structural systemsStrong data analysis skills using tools such as Python, MATLAB, or similarHands-on experience with hardware in a laboratory or test-stand environmentAbility to manage multiple test campaigns in a fast-paced environmentPreferred Skills and Experience5+ years' experience testing aerospace or spaceflight hardware (propulsion systems, structures, mechanisms, avionics)Familiarity with high-pressure fluid systems, cryogenic systems, or hazardous test operationsProficiency with instrumentation, DAQ systems, and sensor selection/integrationDemonstrated ability to develop test plans, execute complex tests, and document resultsBackground in designing and automating test setups with NI, LabVIEW, PLCs, or similar platformsAbility to interpret engineering drawings, FEA/CFD results, and system requirementsPrior involvement in fast-paced R&D or startup environments with rapid iteration cyclesAdditional Requirements:Flexible schedule and willing to travel as neededAdditional Information:Compensation bands are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data.
Individual level and base pay is determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities and internal equity. In addition to base salary, for full-time hires, you may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of stock options, and access to medical, vision & dental coverage as well as access to a 401(k) retirement plan. To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S.
citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Impulse Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Impulse Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by 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.About Impulse SpaceImpulse Space, the in-space transportation company founded by Tom Mueller, is opening access beyond Low Earth Orbit (LEO) with its fleet of in-space transportation vehicles.
The high-energy Helios vehicle unlocks orbits beyond LEO with its powerful Deneb engine, dropping off payloads in MEO, GEO, heliocentric, lunar, and other planetary orbits. The flight-proven Mira vehicle uses a nontoxic, high-impulse chemical propulsion system to offer orbital transport, constellation deployment, and precision reentry services to customers throughout LEO. Led by a team that delivered the most reliable rockets in history, Impulse provides economical and efficient in-space transportation by reliably and rapidly getting customers where they want to go.Our Hiring ProcessStage 1: Application ReceivedStage 2: Resume ReviewStage 3: Intro Phone InterviewStage 4: Technical Phone Interview(s)Stage 5: Onsite InterviewStage 6: Offer!Don't see the right opportunity? Register your interest and be notified when it becomes availableRegister Your Interest