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Specialist, Propulsion System/Rocket Test Engineer

Orange, Virginia
Full Time On-site

Summary

Job Description

Propulsion / Rocket Test Engineers work with customers, program managers and project engineers to define test objectives and identify and select test methods and instrumentation for propulsion systems / rocket motors and their components. They then create plans and procedures for safely conducting these tests, utilizing existing test facilities and equipment, and/or designing new tools or techniques. Test engineers tackle a variety of problems and use a wide range of engineering skills, from mechanical and aerospace to electrical and software. Types of tests include static rocket motor firings, case proof and burst pressure testing, case structural loads testing, direct-connect ramjet/scramjet testing, aeroheat material testing, dynamic/environmental testing, and high-altitude simulation (vacuum) testing.

Essential Functions:

Under general supervision:

  • 40% - Test Planning - Plan, devise and prepare test methods, instrumentation and tooling, applying extensive testing technical expertise. Interface with Design/Project Engineering to develop/interpret test requirements. Work with Quality and Safety to ensure test methods meet customer and government requirements/regulations. Identify/specify facility configurations to meet test requirements. Design test fixtures or identify existing test tooling to interface with test articles.
  • 30% - Test Execution - Conduct, oversee and support test operations in accordance with safety and quality policy and procedures, maintaining overall technical control of test programs. May include physical/mechanical hardware setup, instrumentation calibration and setup, electrical/controls setup, test article prep, control software input preparation, etc. May include directing subcontractors in their execution of subcontracted test programs at off-site test facilities.
  • 20% - Documentation and Reviews - Prepare technical documentation, including test procedures, safety reviews and test readiness reviews.
  • 10% - Project Management - Manage cost and schedule for test programs. Coordinate cost and schedule planning/estimates.

Qualifications:

Requires Bachelor of Science degree in appropriate discipline (Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering preferred) and minimum of 4 years of related experience, or a graduate degree and 2 years of experience.  In lieu of a degree, candidates with a minimum of 8 years of prior related experience will be considered.

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Active DoD clearance.
  • Knowledge of fundamental engineering principles: statics and dynamics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics/dynamics, basic electrical theory, etc.
  • Experience with engineering software, including 3D Modeling/CAD software (Creo, NX, etc.) and analytical software (Matlab, Python, etc.).
  • Proficient use of MSOffice software (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) or equivalent for generating procedures, presentations, and analysis.
  • Effective communication, both verbal and written.
  • Strength in teaming and collaboration in a diverse work environment.
  • Interpretation and compliance with Company policies and procedures, including Safety, Health & Environmental processes and procedures.
  • Related work experience in an academic or industrial lab / test environment where physical measurements are made (pressure, temperature, thrust/load, acceleration, etc.).
  • Related work experience with pneumatic and/or steam pressure systems (pipe/tubing fittings, valves, regulators, filters, and gauges).

L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.

Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.

L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish. For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish.

About L3 Harris

L3 Harris

L3 Harris is one of the largest defense and aerospace companies in the United States, delivering advanced technologies that support missions across air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains. The company develops communications systems, space payloads, intelligence platforms, electronic warfare capabilities, missile defense technologies, and mission-critical sensors used by the U.S. military, intelligence community, and allied nations around the world.

For job seekers, L3Harris offers opportunities across engineering, software development, cybersecurity, space systems, manufacturing, intelligence, program management, and mission operations. The company is especially attractive to veterans, cleared professionals, and engineers who want to work on advanced technologies that directly support national security. With programs spanning tactical communications, ISR platforms, satellite systems, and defense electronics, employees have the opportunity to contribute to some of the military’s most important capabilities.

Unlike companies focused on a single mission area, L3Harris operates across a diverse portfolio of defense technologies, providing employees exposure to a broad range of programs and technical disciplines. Teams work on everything from secure communications and autonomous systems to space-based sensors and electronic warfare platforms, creating opportunities for both specialization and long-term career growth within the organization.

As governments continue investing in modernization, space capabilities, resilient communications, and advanced sensing technologies, L3Harris remains one of the most important employers in the defense industry. For professionals seeking a mission-driven career with strong growth opportunities, technical challenges, and direct impact on global security, L3Harris continues to stand out as a leading destination in aerospace and defense.

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