Lead Test EngineerDESCRIPTION We are seeking a highly capable Lead Test Engineer to guide the planning, development, and execution of component, subsystem, and system-level testing for our next-generation defensive systems. In this role, you will serve as a technical leader for the Test Engineering & Operations organization, driving test architecture, instrumentation, data systems, and disciplined execution across a wide range of hardware. You will lead a small team of test engineers and/or technicians (1-5 direct reports) while remaining deeply hands-on in design, test execution, data analysis, and continuous improvement. The ideal candidate combines strong technical depth with the ability to mentor others, coordinate cross-functionally, and elevate the technical quality and reliability of all test activities.
RESPONSIBILITIES:- Lead development of test plans, procedures, instrumentation strategies, and data acquisition configurations for component, subsystem, and integrated system tests
- Design and refine test setups, fixtures, interfaces, and test stand elements in collaboration with mechanical, electrical, and GNC teams
- Lead, mentor, and develop a small team of test engineers and technicians, providing technical guidance, feedback, and day-to-day support
- Assign and prioritize work across the team to meet program objectives and test schedules
- Build a culture of technical rigor, safety, ownership, and continuous improvement
- Oversee and participate in hands-on test execution, including setup, instrumentation, pre-test readiness, control room operations, teardown, and data review
- Ensure tests are executed safely and consistently through hazard analyses, procedural reviews, and operational readiness checks
- Validate test data quality and lead post-test analysis, reporting, and communication of results to engineering and program stakeholders
- Coordinate with engineering, manufacturing, and program teams to align test requirements, hardware readiness, and schedules
- Partner with test operations and facilities teams to ensure test stands, GSE, and site infrastructure meet technical and operational needs
- Support anomaly investigations, root cause analysis, and implementation of corrective actions across test and engineering teams
- Drive continuous improvement in test documentation, procedures, and instrumentation reliability - including automation opportunities, data pipeline enhancements, and ongoing GSE development
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:- Bachelor's degree in mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical, or related engineering discipline.
- 6+ years of test engineering experience within aerospace, defense, propulsion, or high-reliability hardware environments.
REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:- Hands-on experience leading and executing component or subsystem tests with a strong understanding of sensors, DAQ systems, and control room operations.
- Demonstrated experience writing test plans, developing test setups or fixtures, and performing structured post-test analysis.
- Prior experience mentoring junior engineers or technicians, or serving as a technical lead.
- Strong understanding of safety processes, hazard analysis, and high-energy test operations.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate across technical disciplines.
- Must meet U.S. export control requirements (U.S. citizen, permanent resident, asylee, or refugee).
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:- Experience with system-level, engine-level, or propulsion test campaigns.
- Familiarity with real-time control systems, PLCs, automated test sequences, or custom DAQ systems.
- Experience designing or improving test stands, GSE, or test site infrastructure.
- Proficiency with Python, MATLAB, or similar tools for data processing and analysis.
- Prior experience in a startup or high-growth hardware environment.
- Experience with pyrotechnics, propulsion systems, hazardous operations, or flight test environments.
- Knowledge of configuration management practices and structured test documentation systems
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:- Can work in an indoor manufacturing environment 70%, outdoors 30%
- Travel between our Port of Long Beach (70%), El Segundo (20%), and other facilities (10%) as required. Occasional travel to our other in-state and out-of-state sites may be required.
- Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time
- Ability to use a computer to complete assignments
- Ability to communicate with individuals and groups in person, by phone, and telepresence
- Ability to pick up to 12lbs
- While performing the duties of this job, the employee will typically work in an office environment
$145,000 - $185,000 a year
This is the lowest-to-highest compensation range we reasonably and in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range, and the range may be modified in the future. An employee's pay position within the salary range will be based on several factors, including, but not limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs.
In addition to base pay and equity, we offer:
- Heavily employer-subsidized medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
- Long Wall paid life insurance and LTD coverage
- 4% 401k match
- Student loan repayment assistance program
- Paid parental leave
- Family planning assistance program
- Long Wall paid financial wellness program
- Paid time off for non-exempt employees and a flexible vacation policy for exempt employees
ITAR RequirementThis position requires access to information protected under US export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations and/or the Export Administration Regulations. As such, US person status (including US citizens, U.S. permanent residents, individuals granted U.S. asylum status, or individuals admitted in U.S. refugee status) is a required qualification for this position.
