Lead Test Engineer

The Sierra Lobo Rocket Technology and Engineering Services II (RTES II) contract provides advise and assist services (A&AS) at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Edwards AFB, California. AFRL conducts rocket propellant and rocket propulsion research, as well as developing associated test processes and facilities.

Sierra Lobo, offers customers a full range of professional and technical capabilities, including Test and Evaluation, Systems Engineering, and Advanced Technologies.  We also develop products and processes related to Cryogenic Fluid and Thermal Management Systems, Densified Propellant Management Systems, and Prototype Extreme Pressure and Temperature Systems.  Our customers include the Department of Defense (DoD), the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, U.S. Army, Missile Defense Agency (MDA), and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

This position will be located at Edwards AFB, CA.

EOE/Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran

The Lead Test Engineer will support the Government Program Lead and provide test engineering advisory services for solid rocket motor testing in support of Aerospace rocket engine and missile motor RDT&E for the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Edwards AFB, California. The Lead Test Engineer will ensure the proper testing and evaluation of solid rocket motors with respect to requirements, safety standards, and procedures. The Lead Test Engineer will also coordinate with the Government Program Lead and Portfolio Principal Investigator on technical issues to support solid rocket motor firing tests.

Position Responsibilities:

Test Support:

• Review, coordinate, and write test plans and procedures for solid rocket motor testing to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Coordinate setup of test facilities for testing including instrumentation, motor mounts, or data acquisition systems.
• Participate in live tests or support testing operations such as ignition test, burn-out tests, and thrust measurement.
• Monitor and analyze test data including real-time test data monitoring to ensure critical parameters are recorded accurately.
• Perform or review post-test data analysis, identifying any anomalies or issues, and evaluating performance against requirements.
• Prepare technical packages for milestone and data reviews with internal and external stakeholders.
• Support risk management and mitigations for solid rocket motor testing.
• Ensure technical requirements and instructions are followed appropriately.

• Provide engineering technical support to project management including developing technical plans and roadmaps for test readiness and coordinating with AFRL staff and contractor personnel to plan and execute work.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Test engineering experience for Rocket and Missile RDT&E activities.
• Familiar with propulsion system research and development, including solid rocket motors, liquid engines, and/or in-space propulsion for test and evaluation.
• Ability to communicate professionally and effectively to senior leadership and internal and external stakeholders.

Education:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in a scientific discipline, preferably physics, aerospace, or engineering. Master’s degree preferred.

Preferred Qualifications:

• AFRL experience.
• Experience managing high-visibility Department of Defense projects.
• Extensive experience in the field of rocket propulsion research and development.
• Demonstrated experience with solid rocket motor testing.

Mandatory Conditions of Employment:

• Must be a US citizen.
• Selectee will be subject to a background investigation prior to onboarding.
• Selectee must obtain a DoD security clearance.