Development Test Engineer

K2Spacecorporation · Los Angeles, CA · Engineering

Posted 2026-10-25

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The Role

You will own the success of component and subsystem testing across structural, thermal, fluid, dynamic, and electromechanical systems. In your first 6 months, you will define development test campaigns, design and build test setups, and be hands-on with flight hardware. In your first year, you will validate designs through prototype testing and lead multidisciplinary test campaigns. In your first two years you will progressively take on larger tests while directly supporting production and qualification testing.

Responsibilities

Own kickoff, design, fabrication, build, operation, data collection, and conclusion/results for development tests

Design test hardware, fixturing, and tooling using CAD, FEA, and hand calculations

Have a hands-on approach to activating test stands, operating test equipment, instrumentation, and executing tests in a safe and organized manner

Troubleshoot performance issues and recommend solutions during test campaigns

Clearly communicate technical data, findings, and recommendations to team members across all levels of the organization

Continuously improve test standards by creating tools, methods, and processes

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or other relevant engineering discipline

Experience with CAD or FEA software packages

2+ years of industry experience with mechanical, structural, and/or electromechanical design and analysis

Experience designing, building, and testing mechanical assemblies and test fixtures for aerospace or terrestrial applications (satellite mechanical systems, payloads, launch vehicles, propulsion systems, and/or aircraft structures and mechanisms)

Hands-on fabrication experience

Nice to Have

Experience with data acquisition, controls, and dedicated test equipment (examples include motor dynos, material testers, vibration tables, environmental data loggers, motorsports DAQ)

Experience with the practical application of GD&T

Experience with NX (Unigraphics) and Teamcenter PLM

Experience with performing structural analysis (Simcenter 3D, Femap, or Hypermesh)

Basic practical programming abilities (Python, MATLAB, Simulink, C++, R, LabVIEW)

Demonstrated ability to own mechanical hardware or systems within an integrated engineering team outside a classroom setting (High Power Rocketry, CubeSats, Robotics Competitions, Formula SAE and Baja SAE, Engineers without Borders, Design-Build-Fly, NASA student launch, personal entrepreneurial ventures, etc.)

Demonstrated understanding of structural analysis and failure modes of complex mechanical systems in space environments and operations

Independent and self-motivated mindset, with strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills

Compensation and Benefits:

Base salary range for this role is $100,000 - $140,000 + equity in the company

Salary will be based on several factors including, but not limited to: knowledge and skills, education, and experience level

Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental/vision coverage, life insurance, paid parental leave, and many other perks

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