Trainee Aerospace Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY: The Entry Level Test Engineer will support system integration, basic testing, and verification activities for hypersonic test vehicles and related subsystems at the Indiana Payload Integration Facility (IPIF). Working under the guidance of senior Test Engineers, this role assists in developing test procedures, preparing test configurations, performing hands on hardware integration, and documenting test results. The Entry Level Test Engineer will collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality teams to ensure readiness for integration and testing activities, maintain documentation accuracy, resolve basic discrepancies, and follow established procedures. This position provides early career engineers with structured growth, technical mentorship, and exposure to complex aerospace test operations.

LOCATION

• Crane, IN

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

PRIMARY –

• Assist in developing and documenting test workflows, documentation, and in the execution of procedures and other testing activities.
• Support system integration activities, including mechanical fit checks, connector verification, and basic electrical/telemetry checkout tasks.
• Participate in test execution, including setup, data collection, and observation of results.
• Manage test schedules in coordination with fellow Test Engineers and area managers.
• Support site visits to experimenter locations to confirm readiness for vehicle integration prior to arrival at the Indiana Payload Integration Facility.
• Coordinate with contractors, sub-contractors, experiment and project teams to facilitate the testing, integration, and execution of test vehicles.
• Create and maintain workflows that support efficient testing operations.

SECONDARY –

• Review and contribute to Lessons Learned databases to support continuous improvement across missions
• Assist in the generation and management of discrepancy reports and ensure timely tracking, traceability, documentation and closure.
• Assist with configuration management of test documents, hardware status, and integration records.
• Support internal and external audits and quality inspections.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY: N/A

JOB SKILLS:

Required –

• Some experience (internship, school project, or 0–1 year in industry) developing or following test procedures.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and interest in hands?on hardware work.
• Basic familiarity with test equipment, electrical connectors, instrumentation, or telemetry systems (can be academic experience).
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and document work accurately.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to obtain or already have an active DoD SECRET clearance.

Preferred –

• Prior exposure to aerospace, defense, or high performance systems (internship, project team, lab environment, etc.).
• Hands-on integration experience with hardware and/or software systems
• Familiarity with environmental or hardware integration testing (thermal, vibration, avionics checkout, etc.).
• Familiarity with writing reports, documenting test results, or tracking technical issues.
• Familiar with rocket-launched or high?performance systems.
• Experience with engineering tools such as MATLAB, Python, and CAD software.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field.
• 0–1 year of relevant experience (internships, co ops, and academic project teams accepted) OR 3–5 years of relevant experience in lieu of degree.

Travel

• Up to 30%

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The role operates in office settings, assembly/integration settings, and field operation/test range environments. Office work includes being seated or standing at a desk, operating a computer and reading a monitor. Assembly/integration work includes extended standing/walking; use of hand tools and test equipment; repetitive tasks; reaching/stooping; occasional lifting/moving of equipment or materials; adherence to safety protocols and required PPE.

• Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
• Paid Time-Off (PTO)
• Holidays
• Education Reimbursement

Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race,color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as aprotected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.

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