Test Instrumentation Engineer

Vast is looking for a Test Instrumentation Engineer, reporting to the Senior Manager, Engineering (E-2), to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design, build, and test of the E-2 LOX/Kerosene oxidizer-rich staged combustion engine.

This will be a full-time, exempt position located at our Mojave Test Site location. 

Responsibilities: 

• This role encompasses two core responsibilities: serving as a console operator during hazardous operations and owning the instrumentation, EGSE, and DAQ systems on the test stand.
• Serve as Test Conductor and Test Director during static fire testing of the E-2 engine, ensuring safe and disciplined execution of test operations.
• Plan, coordinate, and lead hazardous operations involving high-pressure systems, cryogenic fluids, and rocket propulsion hardware.
• Maintain and oversee test stand instrumentation and control systems across rocket engine and component test facilities.
• Develop, update, and maintain electrical schematics for test stand instrumentation and control systems.
• Manage instrumentation calibration records, ensuring traceability, accuracy, and compliance with required standards.
• Oversee calibration equipment inventory, usage, and maintenance, including coordination of recalibration activities.
• Collaborate with skilled technicians to design, build, test, maintain, and troubleshoot Electrical Ground Support Equipment (EGSE).
• Troubleshoot and resolve electrical, mechanical, and software-related issues on test stands to ensure operational readiness.
• Identify and implement continuous improvements to enhance safety, reliability, and operational efficiency at the test site.
• Support and participate in Test Readiness Reviews (TRRs), including verification of test objectives, procedures, and safety requirements.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline.
• 2+ years of experience working with instrumentation and control systems in an operational, design, or development capacity, preferably in test stand or industrial environments.  

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Experience with industrial sensors and instrumentation, including strain gauges, IEPE accelerometers, thermocouples (TCs), RTDs, and 4–20 mA current loop systems.
• Ability to read, interpret, and work from technical documentation, including wiring diagrams, sensor datasheets, equipment manuals, and system schematics.
• Ability to read and interpret plumbing and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs).
• Experience with National Instruments (NI) hardware and LabVIEW-based data acquisition and control systems.
• Proficiency in programming and scripting languages such as Python, MATLAB, C/C++, SQL, and Git for version control.
• Experience working with high-pressure fluid and gas systems, including safe operation, monitoring, and troubleshooting.
• Ability to analyze operational or test data and implement corrective actions based on findings.
• Experience with Siemens NX and Teamcenter.
• Familiarity with Jira and Confluence for workflow tracking and technical documentation.
• Strong attention to detail with a high level of accountability and ownership of work.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with demonstrated ability to work effectively in team environments.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with rapidly changing priorities.

Additional Requirements:

• Willingness to work overtime, or weekends to support critical mission milestones.
• Flexibility required as hours can vary depending on operational needs.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs unassisted.

Pay Range: 

• Test Instrumentation Engineer I: $86,000 - $120,000
• Test Instrumentation Engineer II: $110,000 - $155,000