Instrumentation & Test Telemetry Engineer

Mojave, CA

Astrobotic is at the forefront of advancing space exploration and technology development. Our expertise spans from lunar rovers, landers, and infrastructure to spacecraft navigation, machine vision, and computing systems for in-space robotic applications. To date, the company has been contracted for two lunar missions and has won more than 60 National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), Department of Defense (DoD), and commercial technology contracts worth more than $600 million.We recently launched and operated the first American lunar lander mission since the Apollo Program. Beyond helping lead America back to the Moon, Astrobotic developed and operates reusable vertical takeoff, vertical landing (VTVL) rockets and continues to advance next-generation VTVL capabilities and advanced rocket engines. Established in 2007, Astrobotic is headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, with a propulsion and test campus in Mojave, CA.

The  I&T Telemetry Engineer will be involved in development and evolution of Astrobotic's portfolio of propulsion testing capabilities, including active involvement in engine and flight test campaigns, test stand development and operations, and test infrastructure maintenance and improvements. Responsibilities include test console operations, ownership of test stand software and electrical systems, and development of integration and test procedures. This position will be on-site in Mojave, CA.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Test Operations
  • Ownership of Test Stand Software and Electrical System
  • Integration and Test
  • Serve as a key team member for Mojave test operations, including but not limited to component integration and testing, integrated engine and propulsion system testing, and flight vehicle testing.
  • Operate as the pilot/console operator to support test activities.
  • Develop, integrate, test, and maintain engine test stand control and Data Acquisition (DAQ) systems to provide real time data for console monitoring and data recording for post-test analysis.
  • Independently troubleshoot and resolve issues related to the software and electrical systems to meet the test schedule.
  • Support the selection of new sensors, data acquisition units, computers, network switches, and other test equipment.
  • Create wiring diagrams and harness diagrams for electrical systems.
  • Perform data processing and data analysis to present at test readiness reviews and in post-test reviews
  • Develop integration and test products including test plans, work instructions, test procedures, and test reports.
  • Design, develop, test, and integrate software and hardware solutions.
  • Support integration testing such as power checks, sensor calibration, and equipment checkout.
  • Generate and support discrepancy documentation and ensure test processes and test disciplines are being followed during integration and test execution.
  • Assist and direct technicians with operations and maintenance of the test stand electrical system and electrical ground support equipment.
  • Ensure safe and successful test activities in a variety of environments.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, network software engineering, aerospace engineering, mechatronics engineering, or mechanical engineering.
  • 3+ years of professional experience working with controls, electrical systems, integration and test, or flight operations.
  • Experience in Telemetry or Instrumentation engineering in an operational or test environment.
  • Experience with Ethernet networking and familiarity with TCP, UDP, etc.
  • Proficient in C/C++ programming and troubleshooting.
  • Experience with source control systems such as git.
  • Ability to work under pressure of a real-time test environment.
  • Ability to work in an outdoor desert environment.
  • Configure, operate, and troubleshoot highly specialized telemetry processing systems with the ability to recognize and correctly resolve problems in time critical situations.
  • Operational knowledge of an oscilloscope and multi-meter, soldering wires and connectors, operation of various crimping tools, wire stripping, continuity testing, pinning out a connector, and routing cables.
  • Excellent communication and team interaction skills, strong work ethic, and intrinsic self-motivation.

Desired Skills & Qualifications:

  • Professional experience working with engine and propulsion test.
  • Experience testing around pressurized systems and hazardous materials.
  • Experience working with instrumentation such as pressure transducers, thermocouples, valves, and flow meters.
  • Knowledge in data acquisition concepts, hardware, and interfacing (National Instruments PXIe and CDAQ based).
  • Understanding of regulatory and industrial standards and codes.
  • Mission control or test control room console experience. Working knowledge of MS Visio and/or CAD.