Mechanical Test Engineer III

Position Overview

At Blue Origin, our vision is to enable millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. As part of Advanced Concepts and Enterprise Engineering (ACE), the Test Engineer III will support the Space Resources Program at our Los Angeles facility. In this role, you will leverage technical expertise, leadership, and a commitment to quality to drive rapid product development—from conceptualization and formal design to environmental testing and final integration—to help ensure safe human spaceflight.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead development, documentation, and updating of test procedures including Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs), and detailed test plans to ensure knowledge transfer, operational excellence, and compliance with safety standards.
• Own the setup, operation, and maintenance of environmental test systems—primarily vacuum chambers—for integrated testing of high-power, high-temperature systems.
• Design and assemble hardware fixtures for unique test setups and operate data acquisition devices with proper fittings.
• Troubleshoot both custom and commercial control systems to enhance test operation efficiency and reliability.
• Conduct and lead Test Readiness Reviews to ensure all systems and subsystems meet testing requirements, with meticulous documentation.
• Oversee the installation, operation, and maintenance of instruments and equipment to meet project requirements and safety standards.
• Ensure laboratory vacuum chamber experiments adhere to the highest Environmental Health and Safety standards.
• Collaborate with team members to deliver scalable solutions through fast-paced design, analysis, and construction cycles focused on safety, quality, and innovation.
• Manage laboratory chemical waste by coordinating proper disposal with Environmental Health and Safety departments.
• Provide comprehensive documentation and reports on test results, methodologies, and encountered issues.
• Mentor and guide team members on test operations and safety procedures.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• 3+ years of hands-on laboratory experience with a focus on vacuum chamber operations, flight hardware, and fast-paced test operations.
• Experience in developing, operating, and maintaining large vacuum chambers for integrated testing.
• Ability to plan and execute assembly/disassembly sequences and commissioning.
• Advanced proficiency in drafting and updating SOPs, JHAs, and detailed test procedure documentation.
• Significant experience in conducting Test Readiness Reviews and managing data acquisition devices.
• CAD design and fabrication experience for custom test support fixtures.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting, calibration, and maintenance of laboratory instruments and equipment.
• Familiarity with safety standards applicable to laboratory vacuum chamber experiments and a proven record of ensuring compliance.
• Excellent communication skills, keen attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and a team-oriented mindset.
• Experience with post-flight and post-test analysis, including presenting results to engineering teams.
• Proficiency in using DAQ software and modifying code as required.
• Ability to lift or move heavy equipment up to 40 lbs when necessary.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, related engineering fields, or Physics.
• Experience designing mechanical systems and mechanisms.
• Experience with high temperature materials and thermal analysis.
• Ability to modify code in Python and C as needed.
• Familiarity with In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) systems and typical aerospace systems.
• Experience with environmental testing regulations for space missions.
• Relevant certifications in safety, hazardous materials handling, or vacuum chamber operations.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and work effectively across multiple disciplines.

Benefits & Perks

• Compensation: For CA applicants, $121,023.00 - $169,432.20 (Other site ranges may differ).
• Comprehensive benefits including Medical, Dental, Vision, basic and supplemental Life Insurance, and Paid Parental Leave.
• Short and Long-Term Disability coverage, and a 401(k) plan with a company match of up to 5%.
• Paid Time Off up to four weeks per year plus up to 14 company-paid holidays.
• Eligibility for bonuses and additional benefits based on role type and job level.
• An Education Support Program to further your professional development.