Senior Engineer, Propulsion Test

Senior Test EngineerVirgin Galactic (VG) is seeking a qualified Senior Test Engineer with propulsion development and qualification testing experience. Guided by our values, "Safety Above All", we proactively manage the risks inherent in human spaceflight through our daily actions. In this role, you develop and establish requirements and documentation for tests in support of Hybrid Propulsion System installed in Virgin Galactic's Spaceship Vehicle.

The engineer in this position will have responsibility for the definition of equipment, process, systems, and materials in order to perform safe, repeatable, and efficient tests. This role is for a hands-on person with great attention to detail and excellent people skills. This is a full-time position at the VG's aerospace facility in Mojave, California.ResponsibilitiesPartner with a team of engineers, technicians, vendors, and subcontractors while performing systems analysis to double-check existing work, design new systems, prepare and safely conduct critical development and qualification testsCoordination of test requirements and development of test proceduresCoordination of all test site activities, operation of all ground test support equipment (GSE) and test operations for the hybrid rocket motor and stage system (GSE includes propellant and Pressurant storage and transportation equipmentVerifying all GSE is in good working order, and ensuring necessary improvements, maintenance and documentation are in place to support on-going testing and flight operationsAnalyzes and plans work force utilization, space requirements, and workflow, and designs layout of equipment and workspace for maximum efficiency.Support test operations as well as hybrid rocket design, analysis, and production activitiesConfer with vendors to determine product specifications and arrange for purchase of equipment, materials, or parts, and evaluate products according to specifications and quality standardsAnalyze test data and write reports/make presentationsEstimate fabrication times, staffing requirements, and related costs to provide information for management decisionsRequired Skills and ExperienceBachelor's degree from an accredited institution, with a concentration in a relevant Engineering discipline or physics8+ years of role related experienceLiquid or hybrid rocket propulsion development and qualification testing experience.

Specifically, experience with:Development of test requirements and procedures for components, subsystems, and integrated rocket engine/stage systemsTest readiness reviews, issue tracking, resolution, and reportingData analysis of test dataCoordination of multiple support organizations (S&MA, regulatory bodies)Ground support equipment and high-pressure fluid design and analysis experienceStrong team playerPhysically able to handle items weighing up to 40lbs (unassisted)Excellent verbal and written communication skillsExcellent interpersonal and coaching skillsAbility to interact with all levels of the organizationExcellent organizational skills and problem-solving skillsExcellent computer skills, word, excel and PowerPointPreferred Skills and ExperienceExperience with the design of flight vehicles or vehicle systems to a set of requirements or standards such as CFR 14, Part 400, Part 23 and 25, military or NASAExperience with high-performance teams including engineers, production technicians and ground/flight operations personnelFluid and thermodynamic analysis experience