Test Engineer, Castle Test Site

Astra’s mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Today, Astra offers one of the lowest cost-per-launch dedicated orbital launch services, and one of the industry’s leading flight-proven electric propulsion systems for satellites, the Astra Spacecraft Engine. The Team The Test Operations Team specializes in developing and executing test campaigns for engines, structures, and other flight components of the launch vehicle. Emphasizing safety and efficiency, the team operates in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. The Opportunity ​As a Test Engineer at Astra's Castle test facility in Atwater, CA, you'll play a crucial role in preparing, executing, and analyzing tests for rocket engines, components, and complete launch vehicles. Success in this position requires thriving in a fast-paced environment, effectively contributing to a technically focused team, and collaborating seamlessly across various departments to tackle complex projects.​ How You'll Fulfill Your Mission Safety First: At Astra, safety is our top priority. Test operations involve hazards ranging from cryogenics to heavy lifting. You'll proactively identify, monitor, and mitigate these risks to prevent injuries and ensure a secure testing environment.​ Design and Develop: Conceptualize and create test stands that integrate mechanical, electrical, fluidic, and software components to validate flight hardware effectively.​ Build and Create: Fabricate, assemble, troubleshoot, and repair hardware and equipment essential for test operations, ensuring functionality and reliability.​ Test and Operate: Prepare test articles and stands for hazardous operations. Develop, refine, and execute test procedures, including engine and vehicle hot fires, to assess performance and safety.​ Innovate and Iterate: Continuously enhance the cadence and reliability of test operations by implementing innovative automation solutions within the test facility.​ Partner and Collaborate: Work closely with a cross-disciplinary team, including propulsion, mechanical, electrical, controls, and software engineers, to test and refine flight hardware, fostering a collaborative and efficient work environment. Why We Value You 2+ years in environments involving hazardous or extreme pressure and temperature systems, including relevant club projects and internships Proficiency in developing and reviewing fluid Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) Strong understanding of fluid and structural components and instrumentation, such as valves, regulators, hydraulic actuators, pressure transducers, thermocouples, flow meters, accelerometers, strain gauges, and load cells Experience in designing, fabricating, and assembling complex fluid systems using techniques like tube bending, threading, and structural assembly Ability to perform fundamental thermofluidic and structural analyses Familiarity with data acquisition and control systems Demonstrated ability to manage projects from inception to completion with minimal oversight Proven experience in reviewing data, resolving issues with test hardware, and identifying root causes of failures Enthusiasm for working in a fast-paced, self-driven, iterative startup environment, contributing to systems that enable space launches Strong problem-solving skills with a track record of developing innovative solutions to complex challenges.​ Capability to stand for extended periods and lift items weighing up to 50 lbs. Willingness to travel to various production, test, and launch sites as needed Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, or a related field Desired Multipliers Extensive knowledge of rocket engine components (thrust chambers, pumps, valves, pressure vessels), avionics hardware, and both aluminum and composite structures Master's or higher degree in engineering, physics, or a related field Deep understanding of aerospace hardware qualification processes and familiarity with standards like AS9100 and AS9110 Hands-on experience in industrial power generation, plant operations, combustion devices, and heavy machinery Proficient in manufacturing methods, precision machining, and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) Skilled in Siemens NX with working knowledge of Teamcenter Extensive experience with cryogenic systems, particularly liquid oxygen (LOX) The pay range for this role is: $110,000 - $140,000 per year The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base salary range in the Atwater, CA and excludes additional earnings such as bonus and benefits. If your salary requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply. You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Astra, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills. San Francisco Applicants: Astra will consider applicants with arrest and conviction records (criminal histories) in a manner consistent with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance. ITAR Requirements: This position requires compliance with U.S. Government space technology trade restrictions, specifically the International Trafficking in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and additional regulations governing satellite, launch vehicle, missile, and other related technologies. All jobs restricted by these regulations will be contingent upon the applicant’s status as a documented U.S. Person or their ability to receive a trade license from the cognizant government agency; in addition to any required company background checks and in compliance with applicable U.S. and California laws. Similarly, positions requiring the ability to work on government contracts or a security clearance are also contingent upon the applicants ability to receive the appropriate clearance and be allowed to work on U.S. government contracts.