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Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Leidos

Combat Systems Test Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

Combat System Test & Trials Engineer Position Overview The Combat System Test & Trials Engineer ... Propulsion and power generation * Combat and sensor systems * Integrated Platform Management ...

Leidos

Combat Systems Test Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Combat System Test & Trials Engineer Position Overview The Combat System Test & Trials Engineer ... Platform systems, including power, propulsion, HVAC, and auxiliary systems * Identify deficiencies ...

Leidos

Combat Systems Test Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Combat System Test & Trials Engineer Position Overview The Combat System Test & Trials Engineer ... Platform systems, including power, propulsion, HVAC, and auxiliary systems * Identify deficiencies ...

Quantum Space

Propulsion Engineer II

Rockville, MD · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

We are seeking an Engineer II - Propulsion to contribute to the development of propellant tanks ... You will work closely with propulsion, mechanical, systems, manufacturing, test, and flight ...

Quantum Space

Propulsion Engineer II

Rockville, MD · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

We are seeking an Engineer II - Propulsion to contribute to the development of propellant tanks ... You will work closely with propulsion, mechanical, systems, manufacturing, test, and flight ...

Electra Aero, Inc.

Flight Test Engineer

Manassas, VA

$102K - $124K/yr

Flight Test Engineer About Electra: At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid ... Experience with flight test data reduction including and aerodynamic and propulsion system analysis.

Electra

Flight Test Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

Flight Test Engineer About Electra: At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid ... Experience with flight test data reduction including and aerodynamic and propulsion system analysis.

Electra

Flight Test Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$90K - $170K/yr

Flight Test Engineer About Electra: At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid ... Experience with flight test data reduction including and aerodynamic and propulsion system analysis.

Integrated Resources INC

Test Engineer

Ashburn, VA

Test Engineer Location: Ashburn , VA Duration: 11 Months (Temp to Perm) Responsibilities include overall integration and testing of In-Home Networking products (Broadband Home Routers, Set Top Boxes ...

Electra

Principal Systems Test Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

Principal Systems Test Engineer About Electra At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger ... propulsion copper bird; SIL/HIL labs for flight controls, avionics, and aircraft as a whole ...

Electra

Principal Systems Test Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$139K - $168K/yr

Principal Systems Test Engineer About Electra At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger ... propulsion copper bird; SIL/HIL labs for flight controls, avionics, and aircraft as a whole ...

Revolutional, LLC

Lead Test Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

Lead Test Engineer Location: Suitland, MD (Hybrid) Terms: Full-time Clearance/Work Authorization ... TEMP), and release readiness reports * Establish and manage test data strategies, test data ...

Revolutional, LLC

Lead Test Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

Lead Test Engineer Location: Suitland, MD (Hybrid) Terms: Full-time Clearance/Work Authorization ... TEMP), and release readiness reports * Establish and manage test data strategies, test data ...

Quantum Space

Propulsion Technician II

Rockville, MD · On-site

$50K - $100K/yr

You will work closely with propulsion, mechanical, systems, manufacturing, and test engineering teams to support development and flight spacecraft programs. This is a hands-on role focused on ...

Quantum Space

Propulsion Technician II

Rockville, MD

$50K - $100K/yr

You will work closely with propulsion, mechanical, systems, manufacturing, and test engineering teams to support development and flight spacecraft programs. This is a hands-on role focused on ...

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All JobsTemporary Propulsion Test Engineer JobsTemporary Propulsion Test Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$45.3K

$140.3K

$212.2K

How much do temporary propulsion test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for temporary propulsion test engineer in Reston, VA is $140,328.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,800.00 and $166,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer?

A Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer is a specialized engineer hired for a limited period to conduct and oversee tests on propulsion systems, such as rocket engines or jet engines, in aerospace or automotive industries. Their responsibilities include preparing test setups, analyzing data, ensuring safety protocols, and reporting results to help validate or improve engine designs. These roles are often project-based and may require experience with specific testing equipment and software. Temporary positions allow companies to scale their workforce for critical testing phases without long-term commitments.

What is the difference between Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer vs Propulsion Systems Engineer?

AspectTemporary Propulsion Test EngineerPropulsion Systems Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, testing certificationsEngineering degree, systems design certifications
Work EnvironmentTest facilities, labs, outdoor test sitesDesign offices, integration labs, testing facilities
Industry UsagePrimarily in testing and validation phasesDesign, development, and integration of propulsion systems

The Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer focuses on conducting tests and validating propulsion components, often in test facilities. In contrast, the Propulsion Systems Engineer is involved in designing and developing propulsion systems throughout the product lifecycle. Both roles require engineering credentials and are integral to aerospace and defense industries, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or aerospace engineering, experience with propulsion systems, and often a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with test instrumentation, data acquisition systems, and safety protocols—as well as certifications like FE or EIT—are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you excel in dynamic test environments. These competencies ensure accurate test execution, reliable data collection, and safety compliance, which are critical for propulsion system development.

What types of projects and teams can a Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer expect to work with during their assignment?

As a Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer, you will often be assigned to specific propulsion system projects, such as rocket engine development or aircraft engine testing. You'll typically work closely with multidisciplinary teams that include design engineers, technicians, and safety specialists to plan and execute test campaigns. Your daily responsibilities may involve preparing test setups, monitoring test data in real time, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring all procedures comply with safety standards. The fast-paced, project-based nature of this role offers valuable exposure to cutting-edge technology and can help you build relationships and experience that may lead to longer-term opportunities in the industry.
What are popular job titles related to Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? For Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:
Temporary Propulsion Test Engineer jobs near you
Principal Systems Test Engineer (Aerospace)

Principal Systems Test Engineer (Aerospace)

Electra

Manassas, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Principal Systems Test Engineer (Aerospace)
About Electra
At Electra, we're pioneering sustainable aviation by developing hybrid-electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft designed to transform regional air mobility, by making air travel more efficient, quieter, and environmentally friendly. Able to operate from soccer field-sized spaces, our Ultra Short unlocks a new era of aviation through what we call Direct Aviation - the next level of connectivity bringing air travel closer to where we live, work, and play. Headquartered in Northern Virginia, with additional locations in Switzerland, we're building a diverse team of global professionals passionate about redefining the future of aviation.
Position Overview
Electra is seeking a Principal Systems Test Engineer to lead the evaluation test activities for the company's flagship EL9 aircraft. This role will define and execute the integrated test strategy for aircraft-level systems-including propulsion, flight controls, avionics, hybrid-electric systems-ensuring reliable and safe test operations. The Principal Systems Test Engineer will serve as a technical authority for test setup, execution, and data analysis, while driving Electra's test capability development and guiding teams across all test lab environments.
Key Responsibilities & Essential Functions
  • Lead the execution of the aircraft-level systems test strategy, from component level to flight test.
  • Define system-level test setups according to engineering provided test plans.
  • Architect, develop, and optimize test environments, including SIL/HIL labs with a focus on automation.
  • Collaborate closely with engineering to ensure internal customer needs are met.
  • Support root-cause analyses, failure investigations, and data-driven troubleshooting across multi-disciplinary systems.
  • Develop and maintain robust test procedures and documentation, including procedures and data management.
  • Source test equipment and instrumentation according to requirements defined by engineering in systems and aircraft level test plans.
  • Provide technical mentorship to junior test and systems engineers.
  • Contribute to the creation and advancement of Electra's test processes, tools, and best practices.

Required Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related field.
  • 15+ years of experience in systems testing, integration, or verification of complex aerospace systems, or an equivalent combination of education, skills, and experience.

Required Skills and Qualifications
  • Strong understanding of aircraft systems architecture, including propulsion, electrical power systems, avionics, and flight controls.
  • Demonstrated expertise in assisting engineering with test plan development.
  • Hands-on experience with HIL/SIL environments, test automation, and data acquisition systems.
  • Familiarity with FAA certification processes, system safety assessments, and verification traceability.
  • Proficiency with requirements management tools (e.g., JAMA, DOORS) and test data analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python).
  • Strong collaboration skills and experience leading technical reviews with cross-functional teams.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to influence technical and program stakeholders.

Desired Skills and Qualifications
  • FAA certification experience
  • Test engineering experience with hybrid-electric aircraft, distributed propulsion, or high-voltage electrical systems.
  • Experience with developing or operating large-scale ground tests (e.g., structural testing, propulsion systems, battery energy storage systems, hardware systems integration labs).
  • Knowledge of environmental qualification test standards (DO-160) and system development standards (e.g., ARP4754A and ARP4761).
  • Experience with data acquisition systems (e.g., HBM, IACRA, and similar systems).
  • Experience with successfully and efficiently testing through third party services providers.

Location & Additional Information
  • Location: Headquarters in Manassas, VA. This position will require working at our headquarters full-time.
  • Travel: Travel may be required to assist with third party and supplier testing.

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