What are the responsibilities and job description for the Test Operations Engineer position at Approach Venture?
Test Operations Engineer – Build and Run Advanced Propulsion Test Systems
Alameda, CA | On-site
Opportunity Summary
Join a venture-backed aerospace startup developing next-generation launch and high-speed systems focused on reducing the cost of reaching space. This team is building a novel approach to accelerating payloads using advanced fluid and mechanical systems, with an emphasis on real-world testing and rapid iteration. This role sits at the center of hardware execution. You will plan and operate high-pressure fluid systems, support test campaigns, and work directly with engineers to validate designs through hands-on testing. If you prefer working close to hardware and seeing systems perform in real time, this role offers direct ownership and impact.
About Us
We are an early-stage, seed-funded aerospace company focused on developing scalable, cost-efficient launch technologies. The team is small, technical, and execution-driven, working across mechanical, fluids, and systems engineering to bring new launch concepts from design to test.
Job Duties
$120,000 – $160,000
Alameda, CA | On-site
Opportunity Summary
Join a venture-backed aerospace startup developing next-generation launch and high-speed systems focused on reducing the cost of reaching space. This team is building a novel approach to accelerating payloads using advanced fluid and mechanical systems, with an emphasis on real-world testing and rapid iteration. This role sits at the center of hardware execution. You will plan and operate high-pressure fluid systems, support test campaigns, and work directly with engineers to validate designs through hands-on testing. If you prefer working close to hardware and seeing systems perform in real time, this role offers direct ownership and impact.
About Us
We are an early-stage, seed-funded aerospace company focused on developing scalable, cost-efficient launch technologies. The team is small, technical, and execution-driven, working across mechanical, fluids, and systems engineering to bring new launch concepts from design to test.
Job Duties
- Plan and execute high-pressure fluid and gas operations, including safe handling procedures
- Operate and maintain test systems supporting propulsion and launch-related experiments
- Support design and build of fluid systems, test stands, and supporting hardware
- Integrate sensors, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems into test articles
- Collaborate with engineering teams to develop and refine test procedures and protocols
- Analyze and correlate test data with simulation results to improve system performance
- Maintain detailed test logs, documentation, and safety records for all operations
- Assist with troubleshooting and resolving issues during test campaigns
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
- 2 years of experience in hands-on test, operations, or R&D environments
- Experience working with high-pressure fluid or gas systems
- Familiarity with instrumentation, sensors, and data acquisition systems
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to plan and execute technical work
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, hardware-focused environment
- Experience working with high-pressure systems above 500 psi
- Exposure to hydrogen systems or other hazardous gas environments
- Background in propulsion testing, lab environments, or similar test operations
- Experience calibrating sensors and working with experimental data systems
- Familiarity with safety protocols related to high-energy or pressurized systems
- Direct ownership of critical test operations tied to core technology development
- Opportunity to work hands-on with hardware from early-stage design through execution
- Fast-moving startup environment with meaningful technical challenges
- Exposure to a wide range of engineering disciplines and real-world system validation
- Medical, dental, and 401k benefits
- Paid holidays and PTO
$120,000 – $160,000
Salary : $120,000 - $160,000