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Senior Test Engineer - Heavy Development

Motive Companies
Contract
On-site
Alameda, California, United States
$140 - $155 USD yearly
Test Engineer

This role exists to design, build, and operate next-generation propulsion test infrastructure supporting rocket engine and spacecraft propulsion programs.


You will architect and commission more than 10 new hot-fire test stands and establish the instrumentation and controls standards used across all propulsion testing. This is a hands-on builder role. You will not inherit a finished lab. You will create it.

Key Responsibilities

* Design, build, and commission hot-fire propulsion test stands from scratch
* Architect LabVIEW, PLC, and SCADA control systems
* Specify, integrate, and maintain DAQ hardware and instrumentation systems
* Develop P&IDs, valve sequencing logic, and safety interlock systems
* Operate high-pressure and cryogenic propulsion systems
* Develop and execute test procedures and readiness reviews
* Lead hazard analysis and safety reviews (HAZOP, TRR)
* Troubleshoot live test failures and system anomalies
* Scale and standardize test infrastructure across multiple sites
* Establish technical standards for future test operations


Salary Range - $140-$180K DOE
Please see below for more details on salary:
Junior (0-3 years):Β $140-$155k
Mid (3-7 years):Β $155-$170k
Senior (7+ years):Β $170-180k


Required Qualifications

* US Person (ITAR compliance)
* On-site availability in Alameda, CA
* Ownership of LabVIEW and/or PLC systems
* DAQ and instrumentation system design experience
* High-pressure gas and cryogenic fluids experience
* P&ID development and interlock logic experience
* Hands-on wiring, plumbing, and troubleshooting ability
* Comfortable working around hazardous propulsion systems

Preferred Qualifications

* Built and commissioned hot-fire propulsion test stands from scratch
* End-to-end ownership of LabVIEW/PLC/SCADA systems
* Cryogenic testing experience with LOX, LN2, or LCH4
* Test conductor or propulsion operator background
* HAZOP and hazard analysis leadership
* MATLAB or Python experience
* SolidWorks or CAD-based system layout experience