Space Simulation Test Engineer Verified today
About the Role
Apex is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Space Simulation Test Engineer specializing in environmental testing and checkouts. You will design, implement, and manage test protocols and equipment that simulate the environmental conditions our spacecraft and components will encounter during their lifecycle, including vibration and shock testing, thermal cycling, TVAC testing, EMI/EMC testing, and pneumatic pressure testing.
Responsibilities
- Develop, execute, and manage test plans, procedures, protocols, and requirements for environmental testing and checkouts.
- Participate extensively in test setups and perform both production and qualification level environmental testing.
- Scope, purchase, set up, and maintain environmental testing equipment such as vibration shakers and thermal chambers.
- Perform functional and performance checks to ensure compliance.
- Analyze test data, interpret results, and generate comprehensive test reports.
- Diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve issues across spacecraft and test equipment systems.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams in production, design, and quality assurance.
- Continuously improve testing processes and methodologies to enhance accuracy and efficiency.
- Provide technical support and guidance to engineers and technicians.
- Stay updated on industry trends, technologies, and best practices in environmental testing.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field, or equivalent experience.
- 3+ years of experience in environmental testing within the aerospace industry.
- Strong knowledge of aerospace testing standards and regulations: MIL-STD-461, GSFC-STD-7000, SMC-S-016, MIL-STD-810.
- Experience operating and maintaining environmental testing equipment.
- Understanding of instrumentation used during environmental testing, including thermocouples, accelerometers, and data acquisition systems.
- Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
- U.S. Person status required to access export-controlled data.
Differentiators
- Experience with avionics functional and pneumatic pressure testing.
- Programming experience in Python, LabVIEW, or similar languages.
- Experience scaling environmental testing to high production rates.
- Knowledge of data acquisition and analysis software.
What We Offer
- Equity in Apex.
- 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and dependents, plus $100k life insurance.
- Starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays.
- 401(k) plan with 100% match on first 3%, 50% match on next 2%.
- 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel.
- Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks.
- Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and family gatherings.
- Complete desk setup and tools for productivity.
- World-class office in Playa Vista with flexibility for in-person collaboration.
ITAR Requirements
Apex's work is governed by U.S. export control laws, including ITAR and EAR. To be eligible, you must either qualify as a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen or national, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee) or be able to obtain required export authorizations from the U.S. Department of State, Commerce, or another applicable agency.
