What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Propulsion Test Engineer position at Mach Industries?
Mach is a defense manufacturing company that builds munitions to help the United States win future wars. Backed by $85M in funding from top venture firms, our small lean team ideates, designs, manufactures, and sells cutting-edge weapons to the Department of Defense.
Role Summary
Mach Industries is seeking a Lead Propulsion Test Engineer to spearhead the design, development, and execution of advanced test systems for our next-generation autonomous vehicles. In this role, you will lead the end-to-end testing lifecycle, ensuring the reliable and efficient production of flight hardware. Your expertise will drive the creation of automated testing solutions, data analysis, and continuous system improvements, playing a critical role in the development and validation of cutting-edge propulsion systems.
At Mach Industries, we build next-generation platforms to secure an allied American edge in modern warfare. The future lies in decentralized unmanned systems, and we are dedicated to producing these platforms at scale to maintain technological and strategic superiority. As a Lead Propulsion Test Engineer, you will work at the intersection of innovation, safety, and reliability, helping to ensure that the propulsion systems we develop are not only high-performing but also robust and scalable for production in decentralized factories.
You will work alongside a cross-disciplinary team of engineers, driving the testing and refinement of propulsion systems that provide a strategic edge. This role requires a hands-on, safety-focused leader who thrives in high-energy, dynamic environments and excels at turning test data into actionable insights.
Responsibilities
At Mach Industries, we are committed to supporting the well-being and success of our team members. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to offer financial security and foster personal and professional growth. Here’s an overview of the benefits available to full-time employees:
Competitive Compensation Package
Disclosures
This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.
Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!
Role Summary
Mach Industries is seeking a Lead Propulsion Test Engineer to spearhead the design, development, and execution of advanced test systems for our next-generation autonomous vehicles. In this role, you will lead the end-to-end testing lifecycle, ensuring the reliable and efficient production of flight hardware. Your expertise will drive the creation of automated testing solutions, data analysis, and continuous system improvements, playing a critical role in the development and validation of cutting-edge propulsion systems.
At Mach Industries, we build next-generation platforms to secure an allied American edge in modern warfare. The future lies in decentralized unmanned systems, and we are dedicated to producing these platforms at scale to maintain technological and strategic superiority. As a Lead Propulsion Test Engineer, you will work at the intersection of innovation, safety, and reliability, helping to ensure that the propulsion systems we develop are not only high-performing but also robust and scalable for production in decentralized factories.
You will work alongside a cross-disciplinary team of engineers, driving the testing and refinement of propulsion systems that provide a strategic edge. This role requires a hands-on, safety-focused leader who thrives in high-energy, dynamic environments and excels at turning test data into actionable insights.
Responsibilities
- Design, develop, and implement automated test systems to validate propulsion system performance and reliability.
- Lead the technical execution of testing, from defining requirements to deployment, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement.
- Oversee the entire test lifecycle, including data acquisition, analysis, and post-test evaluation to ensure compliance with performance and safety metrics.
- Provide real-time support to technicians and engineers during test operations, ensuring safe and efficient testing.
- Collaborate with design teams to refine propulsion systems, eliminate anomalies, and enhance system reliability and manufacturability.
- Develop and maintain detailed test plans, cases, and operating procedures, ensuring alignment with program goals.
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
- 5 years of hands-on experience in mechanical, propulsion, or fluid system testing, with a focus on aerospace or defense applications.
- Proficiency in instrumentation and control systems (e.g., PLCs, high-speed data acquisition, pressure transducers, thermocouples, RTDs, strain gauges, flow meters, and load cells).
- Demonstrated expertise in hazardous systems testing (e.g., high-pressure, cryogenic, flammable, or reactive environments).
- Strong background in data analytics and analysis tools such as Python, MATLAB, or LabVIEW.
- Hands-on experience with propulsion systems, including air-breathing or liquid-fueled engines.
- Previous involvement in the development or testing of autonomous or unmanned systems.
- Ability to sit or stand for extended periods and lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted.
- Occasional exposure to high noise, fumes, and extreme temperatures during testing.
- Flexible hours to accommodate critical testing milestones.
- Willingness to travel to remote or future test sites as needed.
At Mach Industries, we are committed to supporting the well-being and success of our team members. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to offer financial security and foster personal and professional growth. Here’s an overview of the benefits available to full-time employees:
Competitive Compensation Package
- The salary range for this position is an estimate based on a variety of factors, including experience, education, skills, and business considerations. The actual salary offered may vary.
- In addition to a competitive base salary, employees may receive equity grants, which are considered part of Mach Industries’ total compensation package.
- Platinum Healthcare Coverage: For U.S. employees, Mach Industries provides platinum-level coverage for medical, dental, and vision insurance at no cost to the employee, with 90% of coverage for dependents.
- Holiday Calendar: We offer a generous holiday schedule including 13 holidays.
- Holiday Shutdown: At the end of December, we provide an extra 10 days off.
- Paid Time Off (PTO): Competitive paid time off policies to ensure work-life balance.
- Daily Meals & Snacks: Daily catered lunches and fully stocked kitchens with snacks, drinks, coffee bar, and more!
- 401(k) Plan (U.S. Only): We offer a company 401(k) with 5% match to provide for your financial future.
- Relocation support for eligible positions, ensuring a smooth transition for team members moving for work.
Disclosures
This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.
Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!
