Frontier Aerospace Corporation · 1 month ago
Propulsion Test Engineer - IDACS
Thousand Oaks, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Entry, Mid Level
$95K/yr - $130K/yr
2+ years expFrontier Aerospace Corporation is focused on advancing in-space propulsion systems. They are seeking a Propulsion Test Engineer with expertise in Instrumentation and Data Acquisition & Control Systems to design, develop, and operate test systems, ensuring accurate data and reliability in propulsion testing.
AerospaceGeospatialSpace Travel
No H1B
U.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Develop and maintain IDACS systems for propulsion test stands, including sensor selection, signal conditioning, wiring, and data acquisition architecture
Integrate control systems for fluid and operator subsystems (valves, regulators, flow control, and safety interlocks)
Design and execute propulsion test campaigns, from cold-flow to hot-fire, ensuring data quality and system safety
Generate and maintain all definition documentation in support of IDACS equipment
Develop and manage engineering tools, as needed in support of test operations
Conduct test operations in the control room as needed
Own sub-systems within the test environment—such as operator user interfaces, feed systems, or effector control systems — driving design improvements and maintenance
Troubleshoot and calibrate instrumentation (pressure, temperature, thrust, flow, etc.) to ensure high-fidelity measurement
Read, interpret, and analyze technical data
Prepare and Support Test Readiness Reviews and Test Data Reviews
Monitor and maintain tracking all IDACS equipment, this includes scheduling maintenance, scheduling calibration cycles, and submitting requests for new equipment when required
Collaborate with propulsion engineers to define test requirements, execute test plans, and interpret results
Implement and maintain automated data logging and control scripts, working closely with software and controls teams
Ensure safe operations in a hazardous test environment, including hypergolic propellants, pressurized systems, and high-voltage electronics
Regular and comprehensive communication to the Propulsion Test Manager/Propulsion Test IPT Lead
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, or Systems Engineering, or equivalent hands-on experience
2+ years of experience in propulsion testing, data acquisition systems, or control system design
Working knowledge of sensors, DAQ hardware (e.g., NI, Omega), signal conditioning, and PLCs
Experience with generating test plans, procedures, and reports
Proficient at instrumentation calibration
Experience with fluid systems, including valves, regulators, and pressure systems
Strong understanding of electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and system integration
Demonstrated ability to work safely around energetic and hazardous systems
Ability to effectively articulate technical challenges provide a clear rationale for decisions and address related concerns
Excellent documentation and communication skills
Must be available to work extended hours, weekends, and shifts, which varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility required
Preferred
Experience with hypergolic test operations
Capable of acting as a Test Conductor or DAQ Operator
Working knowledge of generating engineering definition documentation and work instructions
Experience supporting customer Test Readiness Reviews
Proficiency with LabVIEW, Python, or similar control/data environments
Familiarity with NI CompactRIO, NI CompactDAQ, PID Loops, TCP, Modbus, and Ethernet-based instrumentation
Experience designing or operating automated test systems for propulsion or aerospace applications
Comfortable taking ownership of test subsystems (operator user consoles, feed systems, effector control, etc.) and driving end-to-end performance
Experience in a startup or agile development environment with the ability to adapt to changing priorities and perform in high pressure environments
Benefits
10-12 company paid holidays
Vacation days and Sick days
401(k) w/company matching
Medical
Dental, Vision, Life
Health savings account or Flexible spending account
Company
Frontier Aerospace Corporation
🚀 Business Description Frontier Aerospace is the emergent leader within the space propulsion industry.
11-50 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageTotal Funding
$15.5MKey Investors
AEI Horizon XNASA
2023-03-15Series A· $10M
2021-06-24Seed· $5.5M
2018-08-11Grant
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