Job Descriptions:
GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:
The Test Engineer is responsible for the planning, execution, analysis, and reporting of propulsion system testing across development, acceptance, qualification, and customer-driven test programs. This role owns test activities end-to-end-from test concept and planning through execution and final reporting ensuring data integrity, safety, compliance, and customer confidence.
The Test Engineer provides technical leadership and coordination across R&D, Design and Product Engineering, Senior Performance Engineering, engine testing, diagnostics, and production build activities. This role works closely with Engineering Technicians and Manufacturing personnel to ensure engineering intent, test execution, and shop-floor realities are tightly aligned to deliver reliable, repeatable, and customer-ready results.
Test Planning, Strategy & Documentation
Develop and approve test plans, procedures, and reports for development, acceptance, and qualification testing
Define test objectives, success criteria, instrumentation requirements, and data acquisition needs
Ensure test documentation aligns with customer requirements, AS9100D, and internal standards
Lead and support Test Readiness Reviews (TRRs) and technical reviews
Test Execution & Technical Oversight
Lead and execute test events in ground test cells, development rigs, and customer environments
Provide real-time technical oversight during test execution, including anomaly assessment and decision-making
Coordinate test schedules, facilities, and cross-functional resources
Serve as the final technical authority during test execution
Engineering Technician Leadership & Task Direction
Provide day-to-day technical direction and prioritization for Engineering Technicians reporting into Test
Assign and coordinate technician activities across:
Test setup, instrumentation, and teardown
Diagnostics and troubleshooting
Engine balancing and vibration-related work
Test data collection and configuration verification
Ensure technicians are executing work in accordance with released engineering definitions and safety standards
Mentor and develop Engineering Technicians in test methods, diagnostics, and disciplined execution
Data Acquisition, Analysis & Reporting
Define data acquisition strategies and ensure proper instrumentation configuration
Review and validate test data, trends, and anomalies
Oversee development of engine test summary reports and historical performance reports
Ensure test results are traceable, accurate, and customer-ready
Diagnostics, Troubleshooting & Root Cause
Lead system-level diagnostics and troubleshooting efforts for test and integration issues
Partner with Engineering Technicians on hands-on problem solving
Support root cause analysis, corrective actions, and recovery plans
Ensure lessons learned are captured and fed back into design and production
Cross-Functional & Customer Interface
Interface with Design, Product, Systems, Manufacturing, Quality, and Program Management
Serve as a technical point of contact for customers and test facilities
Communicate test status, risks, and outcomes to leadership and program teams
Safety, Risk & Compliance
Own test safety posture including hazard identification and mitigation
Ensure test activities comply with safety, facility, and regulatory requirements
Support audits, customer reviews, and compliance activities
Continuous Improvement & Standards
Develop and improve test standards, methods, and best practices
Drive improvements in test efficiency, data quality, and execution discipline
Ensure technician feedback and operational insights are captured into standard work
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
No direct supervisory or HR management responsibility
Provides technical guidance and coordination to Engineering Technicians within the scope of test activities
Accountable for technical integrity, safety, and quality of test execution and results
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Strong knowledge of propulsion systems, gas turbine engines, or complex mechanical systems
Experience leading engine testing and test teams
Proficiency in instrumentation, DAQ systems, and test data analysis
Ability to lead hands-on diagnostics and technically guide cross-functional teams through complex test-related problems
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to manage ITAR-controlled and confidential information
Required Experience:
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
Required
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical, or Systems Engineering
5+ years of experience in engine testing, propulsion testing, or similar environments
Preferred
Advanced engineering degree
Experience with LabVIEW, MATLAB, Python, or similar tools
Experience in aerospace/defense or regulated testing environments
WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Office, laboratory, test cell, and manufacturing environments
Extended hours during test campaigns may be required
Exposure to noise, energized systems, and test equipment
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
THE ABOVE STATEMENTS ARE INTENDED TO DESCRIBE THE GENERAL NATURE AND LEVEL OF WORK BEING PERFORMED BY INDIVIDUALS ASSIGNED TO THIS CLASSIFICATION. THEY ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE CONSTRUED AS AN EXHAUSTIVE LIST OF ALL RESPONSIBILITIES, DUTIES AND SKILLS REQUIRED OF PERSONNEL SO CLASSIFIED.
A REVIEW OF THIS CLASSIFICATION HAS EXCLUDED THE MARGINAL FUNCTIONS OF THE CLASSIFICATION THAT ARE INCIDENTAL TO THE PERFORMANCE OF FUNDAMENTAL JOB JUTIES. ALL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ARE ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND REQUIREMENTS AND ARE SUBJECT TO POSSIBLE MODIFICATION TO REASONABLY ACCOMMODATE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES TO PERFORM THIS JOB PROFICIENTLY. THE REQUIREMENTS LISTED IN THIS DOCUMENT ARE THE MINIMUM LEVELS OF KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS OR ABILITIES.
EEO/M/F/D/V
LI-Onsite
Keyword: propulsion testing, engine testing, test planning, instrumentation, DAQ systems, data analysis, diagnostics, root cause, AS9100D, test execution, test reports, gas turbines, LabVIEW, MATLAB, Python
Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.
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From: Kratos Defense
