Test Engineer III - Launch and Test Operations - Ground Software

As part of a hardworking team of specialists, technicians, and test operations engineers, you will work on the design, development, construction, operation, and maintenance of test facilities for various launch vehicle and spaceflight systems. This position is based at our Orbital Launch Site (OLS) in Cape Canaveral, home of our orbital-class, reusable New Glenn rocket. We are seeking a hands-on, detail-oriented Launch & Test Engineer to join our OLS Test Operations team. You will test, maintain, inspect, and troubleshoot ground support equipment (GSE) and test-enabling hardware, including hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, cryogenic, and electrical equipment. You will also sit on the front-room console for New Glenn’s second stage (GS2) static hotfires, working with disciplines including Avionics and Ground Software. Ground Software specifics: Experienced Ground Software / Controls test engineer with proven depth on the Ground Software console (IGS, PLC, Comms, DAQ, HIL). Owns integrated ground systems, PLC automation, comms, DAQ, and HIL supporting fluid/propellant test operations. Hybrid-skill role: strong controls/automation foundation plus direct fluid-system domain experience. ## Position Details - Shifts: A | Mon-Fri (Day), B | Mon-Fri (Evening), C | Fri-Sun (Day), D | Fri-Sun (Evening). Shift times may change depending on launch and test cadence. - Location: Space Coast, FL - Relocation: Available - Potential travel: Up to 25% to support offsite test campaigns, when applicable. ## Key Responsibilities - Participate in designing, constructing, operating, and maintaining test facilities that support development, qualification, and production of orbital rockets, lunar spacecraft, and launch vehicle systems at Launch Complex 36 and adjacent locations, including Launch Complexes 11 and 12, Merritt Island Launch Annex, and Module Test Area. - Generate and execute test procedures involving high-pressure inert and non-inert gas systems, cryogenic and hypergolic fluid systems. - Work with technicians to perform work on test facilities, handle test articles, and lead test operations. - Review and interpret test data to assess facility health and performance at system and component levels. - Size, select, troubleshoot, and maintain test, launch, and fluid system components and instrumentation to ensure readiness for test and launch activities. - Perform Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) and Hazard & Operability Studies (HAZOPs) to identify potential process safety incidents, deviations, and operational issues. - Translate engineering requirements into robust, repeatable test and maintenance processes. - Collaborate with design engineering, quality assurance, supply chain, and production teams. - Develop and maintain test documentation, work instructions, and inspection plans for routine and corrective maintenance of ground and test systems. - Support root cause analysis of process or product non-conformances and develop and implement corrective actions. - Ensure work aligns with applicable quality and safety standards, including AS9100 and ISO 9001. - Identify and complete opportunities for efficiency gains, cadence improvement, and cost reduction. ## Team Focus & Domain Expertise The Test and Launch Engineer will drive rate and reliability for New Glenn's critical launch infrastructure, including the Transporter/Erector, LC-36 Launch Pad, Mobile Test Stand, and specialized test facilities. This role requires technical breadth in one or more disciplines, including cryogenics, pneumatics, hydraulics, mechanical systems, large-scale structures, electronics, transducers, PLCs, and software. Work includes pre-flight verification testing, post-launch inspections, post-flight ground system data review, and returning the facility to a launch-ready state. You will draft and review work orders for routine and corrective maintenance, maintain facility and equipment configuration, understand system safety products, and help implement and commission engineering design changes that improve safety or reliability. Safety excellence is our foundation. The mission is to transform launch infrastructure to support dozens of New Glenn launches annually, improving reliability and accelerating operations. ## Minimum Qualifications - Bachelor of Science in Mechanical, Aerospace, Chemical, Electrical, or Computer Engineering, or a related technical field, from an accredited university. - Experience building or operating automated test sequences where the controlled process was cryogenic, propellant, or pneumatic—not generic industrial or automotive automation. Level I Engineer: 0-2 years; Level II Engineer: 2+ years; Level III Engineer: 5+ years; Senior Level Engineer: 8+ years. - Experience authoring and executing automated console procedures for live test operations. - Real-time console operations experience, including off-nominal / anomaly response. - Demonstrated PLC, DAQ, HIL, integrated ground systems (IGS), and comms/networking for test. - Working knowledge of systems such as pressurized gas systems, cryogenics, fluid systems, hydraulics, instrumentation and controls, or structural components, depending on discipline. - At least 1 year of experience developing work instructions or test procedures to implement upgrades, perform maintenance, and verify system performance. - Strong commitment to safety and ability to execute or oversee multiple projects in a dynamic environment. - Ability to support off-shift, extended hours, and weekends as required for mission milestones. - Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum. ## Preferred Qualifications - Experience troubleshooting hardware and instrumentation related to fluid, mechanical, and electrical systems, such as hydraulics, pneumatics, or cryogenics, and ability to read schematics and P&IDs. - Launch-campaign console time; LabVIEW, Test Stand, or Python experience; New Glenn or comparable launch vehicle experience. - Experience with and interest in learning a broad spectrum of fluids, including cryogenics, monopropellants, hydraulics, or high-pressure systems. - Experience testing and integrating fluid systems, including ground support systems, cryogenics, and propulsion hardware. - Experience developing and verifying installation and operation procedures for mechanical, fluid, or electrical systems. - Experience with automated test equipment, calibration, and configuration management. - Knowledge of engineering fundamentals for electrical, mechanical, and fluid design and verification, including test readiness and operational excellence. - Proficiency in LabVIEW, Python, MATLAB, AutoCAD P&ID, Winplot, Windchill, CREO, or related control and data acquisition systems and software. - Experience with electrical equipment such as electronics, transducers, PLCs, and software systems. - Experience leveraging AI to streamline workflow, such as data review and test automation. - Background in hazardous operations, design for safety, and application of standards such as MIL-STD-810 and AS9100. - Hands-on experience with 3D CAD tools, fabrication, and integration processes. ## Physical Requirements - Test Operations is a physically active, all-four-seasons role with indoor and outdoor work requirements, including rain, wind, cold, heat, and humidity. - Ability to lift 50 lbs. - Ability to climb multiple flights of stairs. - Ability to work at heights. ## Export Control Regulations Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum. ## Background Check - Blue’s Standard Background Check is required for all positions. - A Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check is required for certain profiles if the role requires work on a military installation. - Certain driver roles may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. - Certain profiles require the ability to obtain and maintain a Merchant Mariner Credential, including pre-employment and random drug testing and a DOT physical.