Your space-enabled career begins here

Astra’s mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Today, Astra offers one of the lowest cost-per-launch dedicated orbital launch services, and one of the industry’s leading flight-proven electric propulsion systems for satellites, the Astra Spacecraft Engine.

The Opportunity

As a Senior Test Engineer, you’ll be on the front lines of bringing hardware to life - owning critical test campaigns that validate the systems powering our rockets and spacecraft. From liquid propulsion to avionics to spacecraft subsystems, your work will directly impact the success of flight programs at Astra. If you thrive in ambiguity, take initiative, and enjoy building from scratch, this role is for you.

How You'll Fulfill Your Mission

• Plan and execute engine and component-level tests that qualify hardware for flight.
• Own test campaigns end-to-end - from planning and hardware integration to real-time operations and post-test analysis.
• Collaborate with design, integration, and operations teams to shepherd hardware through development, test, and flight readiness.
• Operate, troubleshoot, and maintain data acquisition systems (primarily National Instruments).
• Design and build mechanical, fluid, and structural test systems - including cryogenic, high-pressure, and hazardous fluid setups.
• Develop automated, repeatable, and safe test procedures and control sequences.
• Collaborate with technicians through fabrication, assembly, and test execution.

Why We Value You

• 3+ years of hands-on test or lab experience (internships, university clubs, or personal projects welcome)
• Exposure to cryogenic, high-pressure, or flammable fluid systems
• Proficient in at least one programming language (Python, MATLAB, C++, etc.)
• Comfortable working with instrumentation: sensors, actuators, solenoids, etc.
• Experience with 3D CAD tools (e.g., NX, SolidWorks, CATIA)
• Thrive in a fast-paced, iterative environment with a bias for action
• B.S. in Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical, or related engineering field

Desired Multipliers

• 5+ years in aerospace, automotive, or high-performance system testing
• Experience troubleshooting test stand anomalies
• Familiarity with designing systems for maintainability and field operation

The pay range for this role is: $130,000 - $165,000 per year

The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base salary range in the San Francisco Bay Area and excludes additional earnings such as bonus and benefits. If your salary requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply.

You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Astra, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.

San Francisco Applicants: Astra will consider applicants with arrest and conviction records (criminal histories) in a manner consistent with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.

ITAR Requirements: This position requires compliance with U.S. Government space technology trade restrictions, specifically the International Trafficking in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and additional regulations governing satellite, launch vehicle, missile, and other related technologies. All jobs restricted by these regulations will be contingent upon the applicant’s status as a documented U.S. Person or their ability to receive a trade license from the cognizant government agency; in addition to any required company background checks and in compliance with applicable U.S. and California laws. Similarly, positions requiring the ability to work on government contracts or a security clearance are also contingent upon the applicants ability to receive the appropriate clearance and be allowed to work on U.S. government contracts.