Staff Structures Test Engineer

About the Team:

The Factory Test team is responsible for hardware testing in our Long Beach facilities. We use our breadth of experience and collaborative engineering approach to support everything from very large structural tests to precise valve actuation. To that end, we design, build, and operate all test assets in Long Beach from initial concept to test execution. If you enjoy working on a multi-disciplinary team with a broad mandate and want to put hands on hardware, then this is the team for you.

About the Role:

As a Staff Structures Engineer on the Dev Test team, you will be responsible for the design, fabrication, and activation of test stands and fixtures for our Terran R launch vehicle. Based in Long Beach, our engineers are responsible for the full design cycle on projects ranging from fast and temporary to permanent, long-term infrastructure. You will identify the key stakeholders across many partner teams, surface the key questions, and drive the resolution of complex test constraints. You will be a key mentor and advisor for the test department. Your primary duties will include:

• Design and analysis of static and/or dynamic test stands
• Creation of fabrication drawings, procurement, and project management
• Assembly, commissioning, and operation of test stands
• Review and approval of test stand designs

You should be an expert in your field, able to help us solve new and wide-ranging challenges. While previous aerospace experience is not required, you should be an accomplished designer and analyst of critical structural systems.

About You:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field
• 7+ years of experience designing, analyzing, and building metallic structures
• Experience with the complete design cycle from requirements generation to functional product
• Proficiency in 3D modeling and drafting, including expert knowledge of GD&T
• Thorough understanding of engineering fundamentals and their application, including the ability to help others achieve similar mastery
• Expert level knowledge of structural analysis using NASTRAN or similar tools
• Track record of delivering complex and innovative projects on time and on budget

Nice to haves but not required: 

• Previous design experience with weld size analysis
• Hands-on experience with metalworking, welding, hydraulics, manufacturing, etc.
• Experience operating construction equipment (forklift, telehandler, excavator, boom crane, etc)
• Ability to automate workflows using Python, VBA, etc.
• Willing to work at heights, in confined spaces, in a dirty environment, and away from your desk
• No previous aerospace experience is required for this position