Mechanical Engineer - Test Structures

Position Overview

You will be part of a team of driven and enthusiastic professionals working to revolutionize access to space. Vaya Space is a purpose driven, sustainability focused, and environmentally conscious enterprise dedicated to making a difference for humankind. Vaya's unique vortex-hybrid rocket is projected to disrupt the market, fueled by recycled thermoplastics, utilizing the equivalent of 2 million discarded plastic bottles per launch. Our breakthrough and patented technologies overcome safety, affordability, and sustainability issues to transform the space industry and make both the world and space a better place.

As a Mechanical Engineer – Test, you will design, assemble, and operate rocket engine test stands and other subsystem test structures at our test facilities and locations. Testing is at the heart of our operations, involving design work, ground tests, and flight tests required to bring Dauntless to commercial flight. To be successful, you should be comfortable in a fast-paced, often uncertain environment, collaborating to develop innovative solutions while demonstrating personal leadership, technical competence, and attention to detail. A willingness to step outside your comfort zone is essential in our small, fast-paced company where everyone pitches in as needed.

Travel Required: 15% | Security Clearance: None (ITAR Eligible)

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop structural test fixtures, load frames, and custom hardware to support testing of flight components and vehicle subassemblies for the Dauntless Space Launch Vehicle.
• Lead cradle-to-grave ownership of test stand systems, including design, procurement, build, instrumentation, and operational procedures.
• Support structural and mechanical testing campaigns, including test article installation, load application, data acquisition, and post-test data review.
• Work with structural analysts and design engineers to define load cases, boundary conditions, and instrumentation requirements.
• Develop and maintain test plans, procedures, hazard analyses, and post-test reports in compliance with internal safety and quality standards.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with propulsion, GNC, avionics, and manufacturing teams to ensure testability of integrated vehicle components.
• Mentor technicians and junior engineers during build and test operations.
• Ensure adherence to configuration control, documentation, and schedule requirements.
• Support technical design trade studies and test article development.
• Perform other duties as required.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of relevant hands-on experience in a structural or mechanical testing role in aerospace, defense, or related industries.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD modeling (e.g. Siemens NX, SolidWorks).
• Familiarity with structural testing equipment (e.g., actuators, load cells, strain gauges, DAQ systems).
• Demonstrated ability to manage the full lifecycle of a test—from concept through data analysis.
• Hands-on experience in the design and manufacturing of test stands.
• Proficiency with engineering drawings and Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Ability to read and interpret engineering standards and technical requirements.
• Effective communication of technical information.
• Capable of working both independently and as part of a team.
• Skilled in Microsoft Office applications and database systems.
• Willingness to work flexible hours as necessary.
• US Person as defined in 22 CFR Part 120.15, since work includes ITAR controlled technical data.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Understanding of appropriate test methodologies for rocket engines and space launch vehicle hardware.
• Familiarity with environmental test protocols (vibe, thermal, shock).
• Working knowledge of FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN) to validate test stand integrity.
• Experience writing and reviewing test procedures, hazard reports, and technical documentation.
• Ability to program test scripts in LabVIEW or similar software.
• Experience with the integration of data acquisition systems and sensors into a test stand.
• Working knowledge of hybrid rocket engine concepts and practices.
• Familiarity with material compatibilities for oxidizers.
• Experience in leading technical interchange/communications with vendors and partners in design and manufacturing environments.