ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Engine Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Venus Aerospace

Test Engineer

Houston, TX

Who We Are: Venus Aerospace is revolutionizing rocket engine propulsion. With the first ... Test Engineer As a Test Engineer, you will play a key role on a multidisciplinary team responsible ...

Venus Aerospace

Test Engineer

Houston, TX

Who We Are: Venus Aerospace is revolutionizing rocket engine propulsion. With the first ... Test Engineer As a Test Engineer, you will play a key role on a multidisciplinary team responsible ...

Renk

Mechanic Engine Test Entry

Muskegon, MI

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

Our tradition is centered on precision-engineered systems for maximum impact, efficiency and ... engine and transmission products, demonstrating technical knowledge in assembly, test and repair.

Shield AI

Senior Propulsion Test Engineer (R4640)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$113.95K - $170.92K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Propulsion Test Engineer to lead the planning and execution of propulsion ... Architect, design, analyze, and build test stands and fixtures for engine, fuel, oil, bleed air ...

Agile Space Industries

Test Engineer III/IV

Durango, CO · On-site

$99K - $176K/yr

Agile Space Industries is seeking a Propulsion Test Engineer III/IV onsite in Durango, CO to ... The ideal candidate has direct experience with engine testing, data acquisition systems, and ...

Agile Space Industries

Test Engineer III/IV

Durango, CO · On-site

$99K - $176K/yr

Agile Space Industries is seeking a Propulsion Test Engineer III/IV onsite in Durango, CO to ... The ideal candidate has direct experience with engine testing, data acquisition systems, and ...

Shield AI

Propulsion Test Engineer (R4380)

Wichita, KS

$150K - $230K/yr

Support engine, hover, static, and integrated propulsion test campaigns for X-BAT including ... Collaborate with Instrumentation Engineering to ensure data quality, test post process analysis ...

Firehawk Aerospace Inc

Test Engineer

Addison, TX · On-site

Designing and operating rocket engine test stands for our solid rocket motors and hybrid engines ... Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering or a ...

Shield AI

Senior Propulsion Test Engineer (R4640)

Dallas, TX · On-site

$113.95K - $170.92K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Propulsion Test Engineer to lead the planning and execution of propulsion ... Architect, design, analyze, and build test stands and fixtures for engine, fuel, oil, bleed air ...

BorgWarner

Staff Emissions Test Engineer

Arden, NC

$115.20K - $162K/yr

We are seeking a Test Engineer with strong expertise in engine exhaust emissions testing to join our Test Engineering group and help advance our next generation of products. POSITION SUMMARY: The ...

BorgWarner, Inc.

Staff Emissions Test Engineer

Arden, NC · On-site

$115.20K - $162K/yr

We are seeking a Test Engineer with strong expertise in engine exhaust emissions testing to join our Test Engineering group and help advance our next generation of products. POSITION SUMMARY: The ...

Firefly Aerospace

Test Engineer I

Briggs, TX · On-site

As a Test Engineer, you will take ownership of test operations for the Spectre propulsion engine ... Specter is an engine built on site, tested on site, and operated by you to be ready to fly to the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsEngine Test Engineer Jobs

Engine Test Engineer information

See salary details

$10

$46

$69

How much do engine test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for engine test engineer in the United States is $46.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.86 and $59.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Engine Test Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Engine Test Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical or automotive engineering, experience with engine systems, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, engine testing software, and data acquisition systems, as well as certifications like Six Sigma or ASE, is often required. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you excel in coordinating with teams and troubleshooting complex issues. These skills ensure reliable engine performance, accurate test results, and compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges faced by Engine Test Engineers during engine validation, and how are they typically addressed?

Engine Test Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unexpected test cell failures, managing tight project timelines, and ensuring that test data is both accurate and repeatable. These issues are typically addressed through robust test planning, close collaboration with design and calibration teams, and continuous monitoring of test equipment and safety protocols. Effective communication and adaptability are key, as engineers frequently need to adjust testing parameters or troubleshooting strategies based on real-time results and project priorities.

What are Engine Test Engineers?

Engine Test Engineers are professionals who design, conduct, and analyze tests on engines to evaluate their performance, durability, and compliance with regulations. They work with various types of engines, such as automotive, aerospace, or industrial, using specialized equipment and data analysis tools. Their responsibilities include developing test procedures, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with design and development teams to improve engine systems. Engine Test Engineers play a critical role in ensuring engines are safe, reliable, and efficient before they reach the market.

What is the difference between Engine Test Engineer vs Mechanical Test Engineer?

AspectEngine Test EngineerMechanical Test Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Automotive, or Aerospace Engineering; relevant certificationsBachelor's in Mechanical or related engineering; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentTesting labs, engine development facilities, automotive or aerospace industriesTesting labs, product development, manufacturing sectors
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, heavy machineryManufacturing, aerospace, automotive

Engine Test Engineers focus on testing and validating engines, ensuring performance and compliance in automotive or aerospace sectors. Mechanical Test Engineers have a broader scope, testing various mechanical components and systems. Both roles require similar credentials and often work in overlapping environments, but their specific focus areas differ.

More about Engine Test Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Engine Test Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Engine Test Engineer jobs are:
Engine Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Engine Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,884 per year, or $46.6 per hour.
Test Engineer

Test Engineer

Venus Aerospace

Houston, TX

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Who We Are:
Venus Aerospace is revolutionizing rocket engine propulsion. With the first generational leap in rocket engine technology since Apollo, our proprietary Rotating Detonation Rocket Engine and Venus Detonation Ramjets deliver historic efficiency and performance across aerospace applications. We are building the next generation of propulsion platforms that enable breakthrough capabilities in space, defense, and commercial high-speed flight. Our team thrives on solving the toughest engineering challenges and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in aerospace. At Venus, we're looking for bold engineers and innovators who want to make history and redefine the future of propulsion.
 
The Role: Test Engineer 
As a Test Engineer, you will play a key role on a multidisciplinary team responsible for developing test concepts for hardware and bringing those concepts to life. You will be accountable for the design, analysis, development, fabrication, and maintenance of test equipment used across a wide range of applications-from rocket engines to structural airframe components. 
  
If you're excited by solving complex, real-world problems and want to see your work directly enable cutting-edge aerospace hardware, this role offers a rare opportunity to make an immediate and meaningful impact. Join a team with backgrounds ranging from major aerospace firms and chemical plants to government organizations and small, hands-on shops, all driven by ownership, innovation, and technical excellence. 
What You'll Get To Do
  • Develop test concepts and lead them through design, fabrication, commissioning, and operational support. 
  • Design and analyze mechanical and fluid systems for propulsion and structural testing. 
  • Generate and revise piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs) for new and existing test stands and modify supporting structures to meet evolving test requirements. 
  • Operate and support testing involving inert gases, cryogenic fluids, fuels, and oxidizers. 
  • Author detailed test procedures for new system testing and calibration of existing systems. 
  • Review and analyze test data to identify anomalies, performance trends, and improvement opportunities. 
  • Support assembly, troubleshooting, and maintenance of test systems. 
  • Collaborate cross-functionally during live test operations to ensure safe and successful execution. 
  • Work hands-on in the field to support fabrication, installation, and test stand upgrades. 
  • Provide support or contribute to large-scale civil or infrastructure engineering projects. 
What You Have
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related engineering discipline  
  • 3+ years of experience in fluid systems, test stand design, or test engineering; in lieu of a degree, 7+ years of relevant hands-on test experience required 
  • Strong understanding of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and structural fundamentals, with hands-on experience working in high-pressure and cryogenic system environments 
  • Experience writing procedures for test operations, including loading propellant tanks, preparing for engine hot fires, getting the test stand into a safe configuration, etc. 
  • Experience with analyzing data gathered from test stand instrumentation to make decisions on test stand issues or upgrades 
  • Experience with designing mechanical hardware, including CAD work and structural/thermal analysis 
  • Experience designing and integrating fluid system hardware, including: High-pressure tubing, pipe, vacuum-jacketed (VJ) tubing, and flex hoses; NPT, compression, and 37 flared fittings; Pressure regulators and backpressure regulators; Ball, needle, check, butterfly, and solenoid valves; Safety devices such as burst discs and relief valves; VFDs, AC/DC motors; Positive displacement and centrifugal pumps; Stored energy K-bottles and compressor systems 
  • Working knowledge of instrumentation systems, including: Absolute, gauge, and differential pressure transducers; Thermocouples and RTDs; High-speed accelerometers; Load cells and strain-gauge-based sensors; Flowmeters; Mechanical limit switches; Power supplies 
  • Demonstrated experience developing, updating, and maintaining Process & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) and associated test documentation to ensure technical accuracy and alignment with engineering requirements 
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within cross-functional team environments 
  • Willingness and physical capability to support hands-on test operations, including working outdoors, lifting up to 40 pounds, and taking on additional responsibilities as needed to advance company objectives 
What Will Set You Apart
  • 5+ years of experience in a hardware testing environment 
  • 5+ years of CAD modeling experience 
  • 5+ years of fluid system design experience 
  • Background in metal fabrication 
  • Familiarity with hand tools and shop environments 
  • Experience with tools such as: LabVIEW, MATLAB, Python, DIAdem; Confluence, Jira; Microsoft Office Suite or similar platforms 
  • Experience with high-speed or transient data acquisition systems 
  • Experience working in cryogenic or high-temperature test environments 
  • Experience supporting hazardous test operations 
  • Strong cross-functional communication during live test campaigns 
Location:
On-site in Houston, TX
 
Benefits:
Venus Aerospace employee benefits include a 401(k) plan, stock options, and medical benefits, including dental and vision. We have a flex-Friday flexible schedule, unlimited PTO, and receive professional development opportunities.

ITAR Requirements
This position involves access to technology that is subject to U.S. export controls. Any job offer made will be contingent upon the applicant's capacity to serve in compliance with U.S. export controls. To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be able to meet ITAR requirements (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State). You can learn more about ITAR here.
 
Venus Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability. If you have a disability and believe you need a reasonable accommodation, please email [email protected] or call (281) 203-0027.This email and phone number were created exclusively to assist job seekers whose disability prevents them from being able to apply online. Messages or any other purposes, such as following up on an application, third party staffing agencies, website technical issues, or any other issues not related to a disability, will not receive a response. Messages will be returned within five business days.
 
For additional information about our Equal Opportunity Employment Policy, please visit our EEOP page.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
apply for this job

Apply