Mechanical Engineer - Test Structures

Mechanical Engineer II – Test Structures

Summary

You will be part of a team of driven and enthusiastic professionals working to revolutionize access to space. Vaya Space is a purpose driven, sustainability focused, and environmentally conscious enterprise dedicated to making a difference for humankind.  Vaya's unique vortex-hybrid rocket is projected to disrupt the market, fueled by recycled thermoplastics, it utilizes the equivalent of 2 million discarded plastic bottles per launch. Our breakthrough and patented technologies overcome the safety, affordability, and sustainability issues to transform the space industry, making the world and space a better place.

As a Mechanical Engineer - Test, you will design, assemble, and operate rocket engine test stands and other subsystem test structures at our test facilities and other test locations. Testing is the heart of what we do, placing you in the thick of the cycle of design work, ground test, and flight tests needed to bring Dauntless to commercial flight.

To be successful, it is vital that you are comfortable working in a fast-paced and often uncertain environment, collaborating to develop innovative solutions in all areas, while demonstrating personal leadership, technical competence, and attention to detail. A willingness to branch outside your comfort zone is essential… we’re a small fast-paced company and everyone pitches in when needed.

Travel Required

15%

Required Security Clearance

None (ITAR Eligible)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Design and develop structural test fixtures, load frames, and custom hardware to support testing of flight components and vehicle subassemblies for the Dauntless Space Launch Vehicle.
• Lead cradle-to-grave ownership of test stand systems including design, procurement, build, instrumentation, and operational procedures.
• Support structural and mechanical testing campaigns including test article installation, load application, data acquisition, and post-test data review.
• Work with structural analysts and design engineers to define load cases, boundary conditions, and instrumentation requirements.
• Develop and maintain test plans, procedures, hazard analyses, and post-test reports in compliance with internal safety and quality standards.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with propulsion, GNC, avionics, and manufacturing teams to ensure testability of integrated vehicle components.
• Mentor technicians and junior engineers during build and test operations.
• Ensure adherence to configuration control, documentation, and schedule requirements.
• Support technical design trade studies and test article development.
• Perform other duties as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of relevant hands-on experience in a structural or mechanical testing role in the aerospace, defense, or relevant industries.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD modeling (e.g. Siemens NX, SolidWorks).
• Familiarity with structural testing equipment (e.g., actuators, load cells, strain gauges, DAQ systems).
• Demonstrated ability to manage full lifecycle of a test—from concept through data analysis.
• Hands-on experience in the design and manufacturing of test stands.
• Demonstrated ability with engineering drawings and Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Ability to read and interpret engineering standards and technical requirements.
• Ability to effectively communicate technical information.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Skilled in Microsoft Office applications and data base systems.
• Willingness to work flexible hours as necessary.
• US Person as defined in 22 CFR Part 120.15 (U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and those given asylum in the United States, and temporary residents granted amnesty) since work includes ITAR controlled technical data.

Preferred Skills and Education

• Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Understanding of appropriate test methodologies for rocket engines and space launch vehicle hardware.
• Familiarity with environmental test protocols (vibe, thermal, shock).
• Working knowledge of FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN) to validate test stand integrity.
• Experience writing and reviewing test procedures, hazard reports, and technical documentation.
• Ability to program test scripts in LabVIEW or similar software.
• Experience with integration of data acquisition systems and sensors into a test stand.
• Working knowledge of hybrid rocket engine concepts and practice.
• Familiarity with material compatibilities for oxidizers.
• Experience in leading technical interchange/communications with vendors and partners, both in the design and manufacturing environments.