Propulsion Testing Manager

Parque Industrial de Elche (Poligono Industrial), España

Mission

As a Propulsion Testing Manager at PLD Space, your mission is to lead and manage the testing activities for liquid propulsion systems, ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of our rocket engines and associated components. You will play a critical role in planning, executing, and analyzing test campaigns to validate the performance and integrity of our propulsion systems. 

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise the propulsion testing team, providing technical guidance, direction, and support in conducting liquid propulsion system tests. 
• Collaborate with engineering teams to define test objectives, requirements, and test plans for liquid propulsion systems, including engines, turbopumps, valves, and associated subsystems. 
• Manage the development and implementation of test procedures, ensuring compliance with safety standards, regulations, and industry best practices. 
• Oversee the setup, operation, and maintenance of test facilities, including test stands, instrumentation systems, and data acquisition systems. 
• Conduct risk assessments and implement safety measures to mitigate potential hazards during testing operations. 
• Analyse and interpret test data to evaluate the performance, reliability, and stability of liquid propulsion systems, identifying anomalies and proposing corrective actions. 
• Collaborate with manufacturing and production teams to ensure the proper configuration and readiness of propulsion system test articles. 
• Coordinate with external suppliers and vendors to procure necessary testing equipment, services, and facilities. 
• Maintain testing documentation and records, including test plans, reports, and data analysis, ensuring accuracy and traceability. 
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in testing methodologies, instrumentation technologies, and regulatory requirements, applying them to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of testing activities. 
• Generate documentation, including user guides, guidelines and user manuals for internal customers use. 
• Provide mentorship, and support to ensure high-quality deliverables. 
• Generate documentation for formal program development reviews. 
• Provide high-level and low-level feedback for MIURA 5 program development planning. 
  
  

Required Knowledge

• Aerospace Engineering bachelor’s degree or demonstrable relevant experience in lieu thereof. Advanced degree preferred. 
• > 10 years of relevant technical experience. 
• Strong understanding of liquid propulsion system testing principles, methodologies, and best practices. 
• Knowledge of test instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and measurement techniques for propulsion system testing. 
• Familiarity with test facility design, setup, and operation, including safety protocols and equipment calibration. 
• Understanding of safety regulations, standards, and hazard analysis techniques specific to liquid propulsion testing. 
• Proficiency in using engineering software tools for data analysis and interpretation.
  
  

Required Competencies

• Leadership and managerial skills to effectively lead and supervise a testing team. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams, suppliers, and external partners. 
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities to address complex challenges in testing liquid propulsion systems. 
• Attention to detail and accuracy in test planning, execution, and data analysis. 
• Ability to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, managing multiple testing projects and priorities. 
• Strong organizational and time management skills to meet project deadlines and milestones. 
• Commitment to safety and adherence to safety protocols and regulations in testing operations. 
• English B2-C1.

Desired Competencies

• Experience in liquid propulsion system testing for launch vehicles. 
• Familiarity with test automation, control systems, and real-time data acquisition techniques. 
• Knowledge of statistical analysis methods and tools for test data processing and interpretation. 
• Understanding of environmental testing, such as thermal vacuum testing, cryogenic testing and vibration testing. 
• Experience with test article design, preparation, and instrumentation for propulsion system testing. 
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements and certification processes for propulsion system testing. 
• Previous experience in a managerial or leadership role.

 

Others

• Location: Elche and Teruel. Recurrent travels between facilities. 
• Full time position  
• Flexibility and willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required. 

Equal Employment Opportunity

Payload Aerospace SL is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against gender, marital status, religion, age, colour, race, sexual orientation, nationality or disability.

We are compromised in maintaining a diverse and free from discrimination working environment where everyone is treated with respect. Employment is based on an individual’s merit and qualifications, directly related to job competence.

These principles are included in all aspects of employment: recruiting, hiring, training, compensation and benefits, and promotion.