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Specialist, Propulsion System/Rocket Test Engineer
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What they do
An Aerospace Engineer designs aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft using knowledge of engineering and physics, and tests prototypes to see if they work according to design. May specialize in aeronautical design and work with airplanes and helicopters, or specialize in astronautical design and work with vehicles used in outer space. May specialize in a particular area of design, such as aerodynamic flow or navigation.
$111,609 / year median in Virginia
+3% projected growth
Job Description
- Orange, Virginia
PERMANENT
Updated 08/2026 Job Description Job Summary L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers' mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do. L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers' mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.Job Title:
Specialist, Propulsion / Rocket Test EngineerJob ID:
37490Job Location:
Orange, VAJob Schedule:
Shift:
9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days- totaling 80 hours worked
- and have every other Friday off
Job Description:
Propulsion / Rocket Test Engineers work with customers, program managers and project engineers to define test objectives and identify and select test methods and instrumentation for propulsion systems / rocket motors and their components. They then create plans and procedures for safely conducting these tests, utilizing existing test facilities and equipment, and/or designing new tools or techniques. Test engineers tackle a variety of problems and use a wide range of engineering skills, from mechanical and aerospace to electrical and software. Types of tests include static rocket motor firings, case proof and burst pressure testing, case structural loads testing, direct-connect ramjet/scramjet testing, aeroheat material testing, dynamic/environmental testing, and high-altitude simulation (vacuum) testing.Essential Functions:
Under general supervision: 40- Test Planning
- Plan, devise and prepare test methods, instrumentation and tooling, applying extensive testing technical expertise.
- Test Execution
- Conduct, oversee and support test operations in accordance with safety and quality policy and procedures, maintaining overall technical control of test programs.
- Documentation and Reviews
- Prepare technical documentation, including test procedures, safety reviews and test readiness reviews. 10
- Project Management
- Manage cost and schedule for test programs.
Qualifications:
Requires Bachelor of Science degree in appropriate discipline (Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering preferred) and minimum of 4 years of related experience, or a graduate degree and 2 years of experience. In lieu of a degree, candidates with a minimum of 8 years of prior related experience will be considered.Preferred Additional Skills:
Active DoD clearance. Knowledge of fundamental engineering principles: statics and dynamics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics/dynamics, basic electrical theory, etc. Experience with engineering software, including 3D Modeling/CAD software (Creo, NX, etc.) and analytical software (Matlab, Python, etc.). Proficient use of MSOffice software (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) or equivalent for generating procedures, presentations, and analysis. Effective communication, both verbal and written. Strength in teaming and collaboration in a diverse work environment. Interpretation and compliance with Company policies and procedures, including Safety, Health & Environmental processes and procedures. Related work experience in an academic or industrial lab / test environment where physical measurements are made (pressure, temperature, thrust/load, acceleration, etc.). Related work experience with pneumatic and/or steam pressure systems (pipe/tubing fittings, valves, regulators, filters, and gauges). In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in Virginia is $76,500- 142,500.