Impulse Space

In-space propulsion and payload mobility

Solar Array Test Engineer

Hardware Validation & TestingConfirmed live in the last 24 hours

Full-timeRedondo Beach, CA, USA$110k - $150k /yrIn-person

About the Job

Requirements

A Bachelor of Science in Electrical, Mechanical, or Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
At least 3 years of direct experience in hardware test engineering.
Working knowledge of photovoltaic behavior, electroluminescence, and solar array performance drivers.
Experience with electrical and thermal instrumentation and data acquisition systems.
Familiarity with environmental and mechanical test methods and laboratory safety practices.
Strong data reduction and analysis skills using Python, MATLAB, or similar tools.
Clear communication and technical documentation skills.

Responsibilities

Define and execute electrical performance tests for solar arrays, including I-V characterization and efficiency measurements.
Plan and run environmental and durability tests, such as thermal cycling, UV exposure, vibration, or shock, as applicable.
Develop test plans and procedures from system and component requirements, including acceptance criteria.
Design, build, and validate test fixtures, harnessing, and high-power setups.
Partner with design, manufacturing, and suppliers to close test gaps and improve reliability and performance.
Participate in anomaly troubleshooting, root-cause investigations, and re-test plans.

As a Solar Array Test Engineer at Impulse, you will play a critical role in designing, planning, and executing testing of solar array systems and subassemblies. This role owns test development from requirements through data review, focusing on electrical performance, mechanical integrity, environmental durability, and flight readiness. You’ll work closely with solar array design, power electronics, systems engineering, and manufacturing teams to ensure robust, compliant, and high-performing solar hardware.

Define and execute electrical performance tests for solar arrays, including I-V characterization and efficiency measurements
Plan and run environmental and durability tests such as thermal cycling, UV exposure, vibration, or shock as applicable
Develop test plans and procedures from system and component requirements, including acceptance criteria
Design, build, and validate test fixtures, harnessing, and high-power setups
Partner with design, manufacturing, and suppliers to close test gaps and improve reliability and performance
Participate in anomaly troubleshooting, root-cause investigations, and re-test plans

B.S. in Electrical, Mechanical, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
3+ years of direct experience in hardware test engineering
Working knowledge of photovoltaic behavior, electroluminescence, and solar array performance drivers
Experience with electrical and thermal instrumentation and DAQ systems
Familiarity with environmental and mechanical test methods and lab safety practices
Strong data reduction and analysis skills in Python, MATLAB, or similar
Clear communicator with solid technical documentation skills

About the Company

Impulse Space

In-space propulsion and payload mobility

Impulse Space builds in-space mobility services and propulsion to move payloads after launch. Its products include Mira for precise maneuvering and rendezvous, Helios high-energy kick stage, Caravan rideshare to higher-energy orbits, and propulsion lines Saiph, Deneb, and Rigel. These tools act as in-space tugs and stages to push, dock, and deploy payloads in orbit. Led by SpaceX veteran Tom Mueller, Impulse Space uses flight-proven hardware and a growing network of facilities to make reaching higher-energy orbits faster and cheaper, expanding access for customers.

Company size: 501-1,000
Company stage: Series D
Total funding: $1.4B
Headquarters: Redondo Beach, CA
Founded: 2021

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