Test Engineer II
Astra
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 Test Engineer II, you'll get hands-on experience with real rocket hardware at a pace you won't find anywhere else. You'll work on active test campaigns, engine hot-fires, component qualification, integrated stage testing, alongside engineers who've built and operated these stands from scratch. This is a role for someone who is a few years in, knows enough to be dangerous, and wants to get to genuinely capable as fast as possible. If you're the kind of engineer who wants to understand why things are built the way they are, not just follow a procedure, Astra is where you'll figure that out.
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How You'll Fulfill Your Mission
- Support engine and component-level test campaigns from hardware integration through data review, working under the guidance of senior engineers and test leads.
- Execute test procedures and control sequences, developing familiarity with the full campaign lifecycle from pre-test setup through post-test closeout.
- Operate complex data acquisition systems and learn to identify instrumentation anomalies in real time.
- Assist in building, modifying, and maintaining mechanical, electrical and fluid test systems. This includes working with high-pressure, cryogenic, and flammable fluids.
- Collaborate with technicians during fabrication, assembly, and test execution. You'll be hands on with hardware, building things from the ground up.
- Develop and refine test procedures under senior engineer review, building toward autonomous procedure authorship over time.
Why We Value You
- 2+ years of hands-on test, lab, or development experience (internships, university clubs, and project work count)
- Exposure to pressurized systems, instrumentation, or fluid handling – you don't need to have worked with cryogens, but you need to understand why we treat them differently
- Proficiency in at least one programming language (Python, MATLAB, C++, or similar)
- Comfortable working with sensors, actuators, and data acquisition hardware at a functional level
- Familiarity with 3D CAD tools (NX, SolidWorks, CATIA, or equivalent)
- B.S. in Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical, or related engineering field
Desired Multipliers
- Prior experience on a test stand, regardless of industry: automotive, academic, defense
- Curiosity about test system design, not just operation
- A track record of figuring things out without being told exactly how
The pay range for this role is: $92,248 - $130,000 per year
Salary and Benefits
We're competitive in compensation and offer equity as part of the package. We have great benefits that include health, vision, dental, and 401K in comparison to other startups. We provide lunch and there's plenty of snacks and drinks to get you through the day.
We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.
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.
© Astra Space Operations, LLC. All rights reserved, Astra is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We encourage people of different backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and perspectives to apply.
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.
