Director, Test and Operations

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Lead all test engineering activities, including test architecture, test stand design, instrumentation, data acquisition systems, qualification planning, and development of test procedures and methodologies.
Own end‑to‑end test operations across component, subsystem, stage, and full system campaigns, ensuring safe, efficient, and repeatable execution of all test activities.
Drive test readiness through test planning, scheduling, configuration control, hardware flow coordination, and managing risk through rigorous pre‑test and post‑test review processes.
Work closely with the sites and facilities team to develop and manage test facilities, ground support equipment, and infrastructure required for engine, structural, environmental, and integrated vehicle testing.
Build, mentor, and scale a high‑performing team spanning test engineering, test technicians, operators, and test site support functions.
Ensure compliance with all safety, EHS, and regulatory requirements while establishing a strong culture of disciplined test execution.
Partner closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Launch, and Program teams to ensure test assets and campaigns align with development priorities and delivery milestones.
Oversee incident response, anomaly investigations, and corrective actions to ensure lessons learned drive organizational improvements.
Manage budgets, capital planning, and vendor relationships related to test infrastructure, equipment, and site operations 

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical, or related engineering discipline; Master’s preferred.
10+ years of experience in test engineering, test operations, or integrated test roles in aerospace, defense, propulsion, or high‑growth hardware environments. 

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Proven hands-on experience leading complex test campaigns at the component, subsystem, and system levels (e.g., propulsion, structures, avionics, integrated vehicle).
5+ years of people‑leadership experience overseeing multi‑disciplinary teams (test engineers, technicians, operators).
Demonstrated ability to build and scale test infrastructure, including test stands, data acquisition systems, instrumentation, and control systems.
Strong working knowledge of test methodologies, qualification and acceptance testing, instrumentation, DAQ systems, telemetry, and control-room operations.
Deep familiarity with test safety, hazard analysis, EHS/OSHA requirements, and disciplined test execution processes.
Experience with root-cause analysis, anomaly investigation, corrective action development, and structured post‑test reviews.
Expertise in planning, scheduling, and managing test operations in coordination with engineering, manufacturing, and program teams.
Strong communication, documentation, and stakeholder-management skills 

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Experience building or operating new test sites or major test infrastructure from the ground up.
Background in missile systems, flight test, propulsion systems, or rapid‑test development programs.
Familiarity with configuration management, requirements traceability, and systems engineering processes.
Experience with automation, data pipelines, real‑time control systems, and advanced instrumentation.
Prior startup or high‑growth environment experience where speed, adaptability, and hands‑on leadership are critical.
Ability to work in outdoor, high‑energy‑test, or remote‑site environments.
ITAR‑related experience and ability to maintain secure‑access compliance. 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Can work in an indoor manufacturing environment 70%, outdoors 30%
Travel between our Port of Long Beach (70%), El Segundo (20%), and other facilities (10%) as required. Occasional travel to our other in-state and out-of-state sites may be required.
Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time
Ability to use a computer to complete assignments
Ability to communicate with individuals and groups in person, by phone, and telepresence
Ability to pick up to 12lbs
While performing the duties of this job, the employee will typically work in an office environment