Lead Test Engineer – Build the Test Lab Powering Autonomous Orbital Assembly!

Golden, CO | Onsite

Opportunity Summary

We’re building next-generation spacecraft that assemble themselves in orbit, and we’re looking for a Lead Test Engineer to take charge of our testing efforts. In this role, you’ll design and build the company’s first test lab, create hardware- and software-in-the-loop environments, and run environmental tests that prove our autonomous tile technology works in space. This is a hands-on role with major ownership, offering the chance to shape critical systems from day one in a fast-moving, well-funded startup.

About Us

We are an early-stage company building revolutionary spacecraft technologies that can self-assemble and reconfigure in orbit. By combining precision hardware, novel docking systems, and advanced autonomy, we are laying the foundation for scalable and resilient orbital infrastructure. With strong financial backing and a founding team experienced in deep-tech aerospace, we are rapidly moving from lab demonstrations to spaceflight missions.

Job Duties

• Establish and manage the company’s first test lab, including selection of equipment, layout, utilities, and safety protocols.
• Design and build test stands for structural, electrical, and environmental validation of spacecraft modules.
• Develop and execute test campaigns including vibration, thermal vacuum (TVAC), EMI/EMC, and integration testing.
• Create and operate hardware-in-the-loop and software-in-the-loop environments to validate autonomous flight software against real hardware.
• Define and implement automated test frameworks, data acquisition systems, and analysis pipelines.
• Collaborate with avionics, propulsion, GNC, and software teams to translate system requirements into testable configurations.
• Author detailed test procedures, reports, and certification documentation to ensure traceability and compliance with aerospace standards.
• Troubleshoot test anomalies, perform root cause analysis, and drive corrective actions.
• Scale the lab’s infrastructure to support rapid iteration and future missions.
• Act as the owner of all test infrastructure, with potential to recruit and mentor additional engineers and technicians as the company grows.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• 6+ years of experience in hardware test engineering, with emphasis on structural, electrical, or environmental validation.
• Hands-on experience building and operating test stands, rigs, or lab infrastructure.
• Strong knowledge of environmental testing methods including vibration, thermal, vacuum, and EMI/EMC.
• Proficiency with instrumentation and DAQ systems, including sensors, load cells, and control systems.
• Demonstrated ability to take ownership of projects in small teams and fast-paced environments.
• Skilled in troubleshooting hardware and test anomalies with a methodical approach.

Preferred Experience

• Familiarity with spacecraft integration and test, including avionics, propulsion, or modular structures.
• Experience with robotics or autonomous systems requiring hardware/software co-validation.
• Exposure to MIL-STD-810, DO-160, or equivalent aerospace environmental standards.
• Prior work with cryogenics, pneumatics, or hydraulics in test environments.
• Experience creating automated test scripts (Python/LabVIEW or similar).
• Background in startups, rapid prototyping, or flight programs with aggressive timelines.

Why Join Us

• Opportunity to build a test lab from the ground up and own all related infrastructure.
• Significant technical ownership in a stealth, venture-backed pre-seed startup.
• Work at the cutting edge of modular spacecraft assembly and autonomy.
• Join an experienced founding team with a track record of success in aerospace and defense.
• Competitive equity package with strong growth potential.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.

Compensation Details

$120,000 - $170,000