Senior GSE Test Engineer - Advanced Programs

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and autonomy beyond Earth orbit. Our Ranger spacecraft deliver high delta-V and sustained on-orbit maneuverability, enabling missions across cislunar and geostationary space that were previously out of reach. We are building the vehicles, infrastructure, and operational expertise that connect and protect assets across the Earth–Moon system.Who We’re Looking ForQuantum Space is seeking a Senior Test Engineer focused on Ground Support Equipment (GSE) and vacuum test systems to enable in-house development and validation of electric propulsion (EP) technologies.This role is built for an engineer who can design and build test infrastructure and operate it, someone equally comfortable developing GSE, working hands-on in a vacuum chamber, and running propulsion test campaigns. You will play a critical role in establishing and scaling our internal EP test capability.Where You’ll Make an ImpactDesign and develop GSE and test infrastructure for electric propulsion systems (thrusters, feed systems, support equipment)Own vacuum chamber test setups: integration, configuration, and operation for EP testingDefine test system requirements including vacuum performance, thermal constraints, instrumentation, and safety systemsLead build, integration, and commissioning of propulsion test setupsDevelop and execute EP test campaigns: setup, operation, data collection, and troubleshootingOperate and maintain vacuum systems: pumps (turbo, cryo, roughing), valves, gauges, and support equipmentTroubleshoot vacuum performance issues including leaks, contamination, and system instabilityDesign and implement instrumentation and data acquisition systems for propulsion testingDevelop test procedures, safety documentation, and operational workflowsCollaborate with propulsion, mechanical, electrical, and AI&T teams to ensure test readiness and data qualityWhat It TakesBS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related technical field5–10+ years of experience with test systems, GSE, or propulsion testingStrong experience designing and building test equipment (not just operating it)Hands-on experience with vacuum systems and vacuum chamber operationsExperience supporting or running test campaigns (setup → execution → troubleshooting)Strong understanding of mechanical systems, fluid systems, and controlsProven ability to troubleshoot complex system-level issues in a test environmentComfortable working hands-on in lab/test settingsWork location within the LA areaNice-to-Have ExperienceDirect experience with electric propulsionExperience with thermal vacuum or propulsion vacuum testingFamiliarity with LabVIEW, PLCs, or custom data acquisition systemsExperience with high-voltage systems associated with EP testingExperience with gas delivery systemsFamiliarity with contamination control and vacuum materials compatibilityWhat You’ll GetOwnership – Build and operate in-house propulsion test capabilityImpact – Direct contribution to core spacecraft propulsion technologyGrowth – Path to test architecture or propulsion test leadershipCompensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefitsLocation: Hawthorne, CACompensation: $125,000 to $180,000 Annual Salary Depending on ExperienceAdditional RequirementsTo comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain required authorizations.