Test Automation Engineer (Propulsion)

About the role

Impulse Space is hiring a Test Automation Engineer (Propulsion) in Redondo Beach to develop and operate the software that powers its propulsion test infrastructure. The role covers automation, data acquisition and control software used across engine test stands, valve test benches and other propulsion component test assets, working closely with test operations, propulsion engineers and other teams.

Key responsibilities

• Design, implement and maintain automation software for propulsion test operations, including near-real-time data acquisition, control systems, automated test sequences and user-facing tools.
• Implement automation frameworks to streamline setup, execution and analysis of propulsion component testing (engines, valves, pressure systems).
• Work with the test operations team to refine and optimize the software used on test assets.
• Take part in the full test lifecycle, from concept and integration through execution, debugging and iterative improvement.
• Review and contribute high-quality, well-tested code in a fast-moving environment.
• Diagnose and resolve issues across software, hardware interfaces and test infrastructure.
• Work onsite with engineering and test teams to support rapid propulsion development.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science or a related field.
• Experience developing user-facing software applications related to networking, hardware control and data acquisition.
• 2+ years of demonstrated proficiency with Python or another object-oriented programming language, and hands-on experience operating the software.
• Preferred: Master's degree in electrical, software, mechanical or aerospace engineering.
• Preferred: familiarity with propulsion systems development testing, LabVIEW certification (CLAD, CLD, CLA), real-time operating systems or deterministic control software, and hands-on experience designing, building and operating electrical systems.
• Preferred: understanding of networking concepts such as IP addressing, Ethernet, VLANs and PTP, and experience in a startup or agile environment.
• Occasional travel to the Mojave test site for asset bring-up, debugging and coordination.
• U.S. citizens, nationals, green card holders, asylees or refugees, or those eligible for an export license, due to ITAR/EAR restrictions.

Required skills

• Python or another object-oriented programming language
• Data acquisition and control principles
• Git and software best practices
• Preferred: LabVIEW, real-time OS, networking basics

What we offer

• Pay range of $105,000 - $160,000 per year, depending on role, level, location and skills.
• Possible long-term incentives in the form of stock options for full-time hires.
• Medical, vision and dental coverage and a 401(k) retirement plan.