Test Engineer III/IV

Description

Agile Space Industries is a rapidly growing supplier of propulsion hardware and engineering services for the space industry. Headquartered in Durango, Colorado, with expanding operations in Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania, and Tulsa, Oklahoma, Agile has achieved more than 40% year-over-year growth for the past three years, and our momentum continues to accelerate.

At Agile, we design, build, and test in-space propulsion systems that give spacecraft the ability to maneuver with precision, reliability, and purpose. Our technologies play a critical role in missions that range from lunar landings and resource utilization to national defense, human exploration, and commercial space transport.

We are seeking bold and driven individuals who thrive in a hands-on, fast-moving environment and want to help write the next chapter of space history as part of a close-knit, innovative team. 

Agile Space Industries is seeking a Propulsion Test Engineer III/IV onsite in Durango, CO to support the development and testing of liquid-fueled rocket engines and propulsion subsystems. This role is hands-on, hardware-driven, and critical to the advancement of our in-house propulsion technology. The ideal candidate has direct experience with engine testing, data acquisition systems, and mechanical troubleshooting and thrives in a fast-paced, engineering-intensive environment.

This is not a software quality assurance or automated testing role—candidates with backgrounds in electrical engineering, mechanical, aerospace, or propulsion system testing will be prioritized.

This position is ideal for experienced engineers who are comfortable in physically demanding conditions and thrive working outdoors year-round—whether it's actively snowing, raining, or over 100°F.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the setup, instrumentation, and execution of hot-fire engine tests, including test stand configuration, pre-test checks, and data capture.
• Analyze test results using high-speed data acquisition systems (DAQ), pressure/temperature sensors, and other telemetry tools.
• Develop, refine, and enforce test procedures, operations protocols, and safety processes.
• Troubleshoot test anomalies in real-time and contribute to root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Collaborate closely with propulsion engineers, safety personnel, and program managers to ensure testing aligns with technical and schedule objectives.
• Support integration and verification of test articles, fluid systems, and ground support equipment (GSE).
• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior test engineers and technicians.
• Maintain strict adherence to safety protocols—including use of PPE and SCBA as required for hazardous operations.
• Perform other test-related duties as assigned by management.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• 5+ years of hands-on experience in test engineering with a focus on hardware, propulsion, or mechanical systems.
• Proven track record conducting physical testing (hot-fire, high-pressure systems, or similar environments).
• Expertise in test stand operations, instrumentation setup, and DAQ tools (e.g., National Instruments, LabVIEW, MATLAB, etc.). 
• Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and hands-on troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work extended shifts, weekends, and non-standard hours as testing demands.
• Must be able to wear a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and operate safely in hazardous test environments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with hypergolic or cryogenic propulsion systems.
• Proficiency in test data reduction, visualization, and report generation.
• Familiarity with telemetry systems, control loops, or remote test execution tools.
• Prior experience leading test teams or managing test campaigns from planning to execution.
• Knowledge of pressure systems, propellant handling, and test facility infrastructure

Physical Requirements: Ability to work safely around rocket propulsion test operations and industrial equipment while adhering to established safety protocols. Periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.  

Employment Type: Exempt

Salary: $99,000-$176,000  Final compensation will be based on factors such as experience, skills, and internal equity, and is typically made within the midrange, rather than the upper end.

Location: Durango, CO

Work Schedule: Full Time, 4 days per week, 10 hours per day.

• Typical schedule is Monday–Thursday, but days may rotate to Friday (or adjust with teammates) to ensure full coverage at the test site.
• Overtime as needed to support test campaigns. Weekend or holiday work may occasionally be required during high-priority test operations.
• Flexibility is expected to align with team rotation and testing needs.
• Approximately 5% domestic travel

Work Environment & Conditions

The use of personal protective equipment (P0050E) may be required while performing certain tasks:

• Safety glasses
• Hearing protection (varies based on tasks)
• Safety shoes
• SCBA (respirator)

Onsite #LI-Onsite

Posting Timeline: This position will remain open for a minimum of five (5) days and will continue to accept applications until the role is filled. Early applications are encouraged, as reviews and interviews may begin during the posting period.

What You'll Love About Us:

Agile Space Industries offers exceptional benefits to support you and your family including generous health coverage, dental and vision plans, Flexible Time Off, parental leave, and a 401(k) with 100% company match up to 4%.

We are committed to creating a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other basis protected by law.

Don’t meet every single requirement? At Agile, we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace. If you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t perfectly align with every qualification, we encourage you to apply anyway. You might be the perfect fit for this role or another opportunity with us.

Reasonable Accommodation

At Agile, our goal is to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates applying and interviewing at Agile Space Industries. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please submit a request to [email protected].

Recruitment Notice: Agile Space Industries is not partnering with external recruiters or agencies at this time. Please do not contact our staff directly regarding open positions. All candidates must apply through our official application process to be considered