The Role: Senior Test Operator
As a Senior Test Operator, you will be at the center of propulsion and systems testing, ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operations. You'll collaborate across disciplines and drive continuous improvements in test execution.
What You'll Get To Do- Coordinate and execute test campaigns, including propulsion hot fires, structural, vibration, thermal testing, and more
- Operate and monitor test stand systems, propulsion hardware, and instrumentation
- Lead the execution of test procedures, ensuring compliance with engineering requirements and safety standards
- Author, review, and refine detailed test procedures and analyze test data for accuracy and performance
- Collaborate with technicians to troubleshoot instrumentation issues and improve reliability
- Support setup, upgrades, maintenance, and breakdown of test stands to ensure readiness for future campaigns
- Act as the key liaison between test, propulsion, manufacturing, and technician teams to ensure smooth test stand operations
- Mentor the operations team in key technical and operational areas, including fluid flow, data acquisition, procedural development, safety practices, and operational excellence
- Document processes and collaborate with the team to enhance and standardize Test Operator Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), with a focus on improving training and onboarding for new operators
- Lead and execute specialized projects independently, ensuring progress without impacting team capacity or delaying ongoing operational activities
What You Have- At least 5 years of experience in a hardware testing environment
- Hands-on knowledge of test components: valves, pneumatic actuators/solenoids, limit switches, relief valves, pressure transducers, thermocouples, pressure vessels, GUIs/HMIs, and data acquisition systems
- Strong problem-solving skills, organizational abilities, and attention to detail
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite or equivalent software
- Clear communication skills, including over comms devices while operating consoles (computer workstation)
- Ability to thrive both as part of a collaborative team and as a self-driven individual
- Comfortable working outdoors as needed; able to lift up to 25 lbs; capable of extended desk/computer work
What Will Set You Apart- Experience with mechanical and fluid system design
- Experience with electrical and mechanical fabrication
- Experience with pressurized gases and liquids up to 6000psia
- Experience with NI hardware (PXIe, cRIO, cDAQ)
- Experience designing and commissioning new test facilities
- Experience with GIT repositories and/or JSON file types
- Experience in an aerospace test environment
Location:On-site in Houston, TX
Benefits:Venus Aerospace employee benefits include a 401(k) plan, stock options, and medical benefits, including dental and vision. We have a flex-Friday flexible schedule, unlimited PTO, and receive professional development opportunities.
ITAR RequirementsThis position involves access to technology that is subject to U.S. export controls. Any job offer made will be contingent upon the applicant's capacity to serve in compliance with U.S. export controls. To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be able to meet ITAR requirements (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State). You can learn more about ITARhere.
