About The Role: As a Development Engineer on the Propulsion team, you will be responsible for advancing engine hardware through rapid, test-driven iteration. You will operate at the intersection of hardware execution and data analysis, owning engine test campaigns and translating results into actionable engineering improvements.
This role requires strong hands-on capability, analytical rigor, and the ability to move quickly between test operations, data interpretation, and hardware problem-solving. You will play a critical role in increasing engine development velocity and reliability.
Responsibilities
- Own development engine test campaigns from planning through execution and post-test analysis
- Define, author, and refine engine test plans, procedures, and setpoints aligned with program objectives
- Support and make decisions during live test operations, including hot-fire and subsystem testing
- Identify, diagnose, and resolve test-related engine issues across hardware, instrumentation, and procedures
- Standardize and improve test data review, reduction, and reporting processes
- Develop Python-based tools for data processing, visualization, and automated analysis
- Translate test data into clear engineering insights, including performance characterization and root cause analysis
- Drive post-test reviews and ensure actionable outcomes are captured and executed
- Participate in hands-on engine build, integration, and test setup activities
- Author and maintain development engine work instructions, test procedures, and technical documentation
- Generate, track, and resolve engineering issues through ticketing systems
- Collaborate cross-functionally with design, manufacturing, avionics, and test teams to resolve system-level challenges
- Ensure proper sensor selection, instrumentation setup, and data integrity during test campaigns
- Contribute to continuous improvement of test infrastructure, tooling, and development processes
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline
- Hands-on experience with hardware build, integration, or test operations
- Experience developing or executing engineering test plans and procedures
- Proficiency in Python for data analysis and automation
- Strong understanding of sensors, instrumentation, and diagnostic techniques
Preferred Skills and Qualifications
- Experience with liquid rocket engines or air-breathing propulsion systems
- Familiarity with high-speed data acquisition and telemetry systems
- Background in thermofluids, combustion, or turbomachinery
- Experience operating in fast-paced, iterative hardware development environments
- Demonstrated ownership of hardware or test systems through multiple development cycles
About
Hermeus is a venture-backed defense aviation company reclaiming the lost art of rapid iterative prototyping to build the fastest aircraft in the world today. By prioritizing relentless hardware iteration, we deliver high-speed systems at the pace of the modern battlefield. We work with the Department of War to provide the high-speed capabilities our nation and its allies need to maintain a durable, asymmetric advantage.