Propulsion Test Engineer - IDACS

About Frontier Aerospace Corporation

At Frontier we’re advancing the next generation of in-space propulsion systems—high-performance, reliable hypergolic thrusters that enable precision orbital maneuvering, station-keeping, and deep-space exploration. Our team thrives at the intersection of hands-on engineering, rapid testing, and flight reliability.

We are currently looking for a Propulsion Test Engineer with a focus on Instrumentation and Data Acquisition & Control Systems (IDACS) to join our propulsion test operations team. This role bridges hardware, software, and test operations, ensuring our test stands deliver accurate data and safe, reliable performance. While working with cross-functional engineering teams, this position ensures that all IDACS and test system implementations meet Frontier’s technical, quality, and operational objectives.

Propulsion Test Engineer – IDACS

The Propulsion Test Engineer – IDACS is responsible for the design, development, integration, and operation of Instrumentation, Data Acquisition, and Control Systems used across Frontier’s propulsion test assets. This includes specifying sensors and instrumentation, implementing data acquisition and control hardware/software, and ensuring accurate, reliable, and safe operation of all test systems supporting hypergolic propulsion testing.

This role focuses on building and maintaining high-fidelity test capabilities by defining system performance requirements, integrating hardware and software interfaces, and verifying that all instrumentation and control subsystems function seamlessly with the broader test environment. The engineer will support testing activities by configuring, operating, and troubleshooting IDACS and related subsystems such as operator user interfaces, electrical terminals, I/O modules, network systems, and effector control systems.

As a Propulsion Test Engineer with Frontier Aerospace, you will contribute to the development and documentation of concepts of operations (ConOps), test requirements, and verification procedures for new or modified test infrastructure involving instrumentation and data acquisition. The role also involves performing analyses related to safety, reliability, maintainability, and testability, ensuring all systems meet operational and safety standards.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and maintain IDACS systems for propulsion test stands, including sensor selection, signal conditioning, wiring, and data acquisition architecture.


• Integrate control systems for fluid and operator subsystems (valves, regulators, flow control, and safety interlocks).


• Design and execute propulsion test campaigns, from cold-flow to hot-fire, ensuring data quality and system safety.


• Generate and maintain all definition documentation in support of IDACS equipment.


• Develop and manage engineering tools, as needed in support of test operations.


• Conduct test operations in the control room as needed.


• Own sub-systems within the test environment—such as operator user interfaces, feed systems, or effector control systems — driving design improvements and maintenance.


• Troubleshoot and calibrate instrumentation (pressure, temperature, thrust, flow, etc.) to ensure high-fidelity measurement.


• Read, interpret, and analyze technical data.


• Prepare and Support Test Readiness Reviews and Test Data Reviews.


• Monitor and maintain tracking all IDACS equipment, this includes scheduling maintenance, scheduling calibration cycles, and submitting requests for new equipment when required.


• Collaborate with propulsion engineers to define test requirements, execute test plans, and interpret results.


• Implement and maintain automated data logging and control scripts, working closely with software and controls teams.


• Ensure safe operations in a hazardous test environment, including hypergolic propellants, pressurized systems, and high-voltage electronics.


• Regular and comprehensive communication to the Propulsion Test Manager/Propulsion Test IPT Lead.

Relevant Experience and Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, or Systems Engineering, or equivalent hands-on experience.


• 2+ years of experience in propulsion testing, data acquisition systems, or control system design.


• Working knowledge of sensors, DAQ hardware (e.g., NI, Omega), signal conditioning, and PLCs.


• Experience with generating test plans, procedures, and reports.


• Proficient at instrumentation calibration.


• Experience with fluid systems, including valves, regulators, and pressure systems.


• Strong understanding of electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and system integration.


• Demonstrated ability to work safely around energetic and hazardous systems.


• Ability to effectively articulate technical challenges provide a clear rationale for decisions and address related concerns.


• Excellent documentation and communication skills.


• Must be available to work extended hours, weekends, and shifts, which varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with hypergolic test operations.


• Capable of acting as a Test Conductor or DAQ Operator.


• Working knowledge of generating engineering definition documentation and work instructions.


• Experience supporting customer Test Readiness Reviews.


• Proficiency with LabVIEW, Python, or similar control/data environments.


• Familiarity with NI CompactRIO, NI CompactDAQ, PID Loops, TCP, Modbus, and Ethernet-based instrumentation.


• Experience designing or operating automated test systems for propulsion or aerospace applications.


• Comfortable taking ownership of test subsystems (operator user consoles, feed systems, effector control, etc.) and driving end-to-end performance.


• Experience in a startup or agile development environment with the ability to adapt to changing priorities and perform in high pressure environments.

Employment Criteria:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Employment Statement:

The responsibilities described on this document are not a comprehensive list and additional tasks may be assigned to the employee. The scope of the job may also change as necessitated by business demands.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Frontier Aerospace participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations as required by law. Learn more about the E-Verify program at www.e-verify.gov.

Pay: Annual Salary $95,000 - $130,000 DOE

Note about pay range: This pay range is a general guideline for California and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

Employment Type and Exempt Status: Full-time / Exempt

Employement Location: Victorville & Newbury Park; This is an in-office position. Travel, as needed, to support test operations.

Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days – totaling 80 hours worked – and have every other Friday off

Benefits: 10-12 company paid holidays

Vacation days and Sick days

401(k) w/company matching

Medical

Dental, Vision, Life

Health savings account or Flexible spending account