Development Test EngineerTorrance, California, United StatesAbout the Job Development Test EngineerCastelion is bringing a new approach to defense development and production: one that focuses on short, iterative design cycles, rapid testing in development, and modern commercial manufacturing strategies for production at scale. We're designing, building, and testing next generation long range strike weapons systems to give America and its Allies a definitive edge and deter future conflicts.The Development Test Engineer owns the planning, execution, and analysis of tests that turn designs into flight-ready hardware. This role sits at the center of engineering, manufacturing, and operations—translating requirements into real-world validation through benchtop, environmental, subsystem, and vehicle-level testing. You will design test hardware, write procedures, run tests, break things early, and close the loop back into design with clear data and recommendations.This is a hands-on role for engineers who thrive in fast-paced, ambiguity-heavy environments and believe the fastest way to learn is to test real hardware.ResponsibilitiesOwn development and qualification testing for avionics, mechanisms, propulsion, structures, and integrated vehicle subsystemsDesign and build test fixtures, ground support equipment (GSE), and instrumentation for benchtop, environmental, and system-level testsAuthor test plans, procedures, and reports aligned with program requirements and qualification intentExecute vibration, thermal, shock, EMI/EMC, functional, and performance testingInstrument hardware and vehicles with sensors (strain, temp, pressure, accel, current/voltage) and DAQ systemsLead anomaly detection, root-cause analysis, and corrective action closurePartner closely with design engineering to feed test results back into rapid design iterationSupport integration operations, range testing, and flight test campaigns as neededMaintain rigorous configuration control, data management, and test documentationImprove test infrastructure, automation, and data quality to increase test cadence and learning velocityBasic QualificationsBachelors degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, or related engineering field3+ years of hands-on development and test experience (academic, industry, or both)Experience planning and executing hardware tests from concept through report-outProficiency with test instrumentation and lab equipment (DAQs, oscilloscopes, power supplies, sensors)Ability to design and fabricate simple test fixtures and GSE (CAD + shop familiarity)Strong debugging, troubleshooting, and root-cause analysis skillsComfortable working across disciplines in high-ownership environmentsWillingness to support extended hours, weekends, travel, and on-site operations during critical test campaignsOperates with high ownership, bias to action, attention to detail, and a test-driven engineering mindsetComfortable working in fast-moving environments where hardware is the source of truthPreferred Skills and ExperienceAerospace, missile, launch vehicle, space, or defense hardware testingEnvironmental testing: vibration, thermal-vacuum, thermal cycling, shockTest automation and data analysis using Python, MATLAB, or similarFlight test, range operations, or hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) experienceFamiliarity with requirements verification, qualification evidence, and failure trackingHands-on machining, wiring, soldering, or rapid prototyping experienceAll employees are granted long-term stock incentives as part of their employment at Castelion. All employees receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental insurance, and the company offers four weeks of paid time off per year.Leadership QualitiesBias to Action and Creative Problem Solving.
Desire and experience questioning assumptions in ways that lead to break through ideas that are ultimately implemented. Successfully bring in applicable processes/concepts/materials from other industries to achieve efficiency gains. Ability to personally resolve minor issues in development without requiring significant support.High Commitment, High Initiative. A successful candidate will have a genuine passion for Castelion's mission and consistently look for ways to contribute to the company's technical goals and prevent hardware blockers. Ability to work in a fast paced, autonomously driven, and demanding atmosphere.
Strong sense of accountability and integrity.Clear Communicator. Proactively communicates blockers. Trusted in previous roles to be voice of company with regulators, suppliers, gate keepers and customers. Capable of tactfully managing relationships with stakeholders to achieve company-desired outcomes without compromising relationships.ITAR Requirements:To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S.
citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.Employment with Castelion is governed on the basis of 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.