Senior Propulsion Test Engineer

Position Overview

At Relativity Space, we’re building rockets to serve today’s needs and tomorrow’s breakthroughs. Our Terran R vehicle will deliver customer payloads to orbit, meeting the growing demand for launch capacity. Joining Relativity means more than executing tasks – you’ll be solving problems that haven’t been solved before, helping to develop a rocket, a factory, and a business from the ground up. Our Stennis Test team designs, builds, and operates propulsion and stage test stands, pushing hardware to its limits and contributing directly to flight readiness. As a Senior Propulsion Test Engineer, you will design, fabricate, and modify test stands for Terran 1 and Terran R engines and stages, supervise construction and commissioning, solve complex technical challenges, and support operations – including occasional night shifts.

Key Responsibilities

• Design advanced propulsion test stands including 3D modeling, fluids and structural analysis, fabrication drawings, fluids P&IDs, component lists, and detailed work instructions.
• Supervise the construction, commissioning, and initial operations of test stands.
• Solve diverse technical problems across varied timeframes, complexities, and cost considerations.
• Support operations and implement improvements to existing test stands.
• Work occasional night shifts as required.

Required Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field.
• Experience Required: 5+ years of combined engineering experience.
• Varied perspectives and backgrounds that strengthen collaborative teamwork.
• Ownership of propulsion or structural test-related projects from design and analysis through construction and commissioning, including proficiency in 3D modeling and drafting (GD&T).
• Strong engineering fundamentals in thermal, structural, and fluids analysis, with the ability to deliver under tight schedules using creative solutions.
• Hands-on fabrication experience using common power tools.
• Knowledge of fluid components such as valves, regulators, and instrumentation, with experience in designing, fabricating, and operating complex fluid systems.
• Valid driver's license required for operating vehicles on the test site.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with FEA or CFD.
• Hands-on experience with metalworking, welding, hydraulics, or manufacturing.
• In-depth knowledge of manufacturing processes, material selection, inspection, precision measurement, and non-destructive testing.

Benefits & Perks

• Salary: $133,000—$170,500 USD
• Compensation: Competitive salary paired with equity, reflective of experience and qualifications.
• Benefits: Generous PTO and sick leave, parental leave, an annual learning and development stipend, and more.