What are the responsibilities and job description for the Launch Vehicle Integration and Test Engineer position at X-Bow Systems?
About Us:
X-Bow Systems is a cutting-edge aerospace technology company focused on revolutionizing propulsion systems for space exploration and defense applications. Our team of innovative engineers and scientists is committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in rocket propulsion. As we continue to expand our operations, we are seeking a talented and driven Launch Vehicle Integration & Test Engineer to join our team.
Job Description:
X-Bow Systems is seeking an experienced Launch Vehicle Integration and Test Engineer with at least 10 years of experience to lead and support the coordination, planning, execution, and reporting of launch vehicle integration and test operations. The ideal candidate will have extensive hands-on experience conducting integration and test activities across multiple environments including integration facilities, Hardware-in-the-Loop (HWIL) laboratories, vendor sites, environmental test facilities, and launch ranges. This position requires travel and the ability to work effectively with diverse teams across multiple locations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Integration & Test Planning
- Develop comprehensive integration and test plans, procedures, and schedules for launch vehicle systems and subsystems
- Coordinate integration and test activities across multiple facilities, vendors, and test ranges
- Support development of detailed test procedures, work instructions, and safety protocols
- Develop test readiness review materials and lead readiness assessments
- Establish test success criteria and acceptance requirements
- Coordinate resource allocation including personnel, equipment, and facilities
- Integration & Test Execution
- Lead and execute integration and test operations for launch vehicle systems
- Perform functional testing and validation of integrated launch vehicle systems
- Support Hardware-in-the-Loop (HWIL) laboratory operations and testing activities
- Troubleshoot and resolve integration and test anomalies
- Operate and interface with Electrical Ground Support Equipment (EGSE) and Mechanical Ground Support Equipment (MGSE)
- Conduct system-level integration of mechanical, electrical, avionics, propulsion, and flight termination systems
- Documentation & Reporting
- Generate detailed test reports documenting procedures, results, anomalies, and corrective actions
- Document lessons learned and best practices from integration and test operations
- Prepare and present test results to technical and program leadership
Minimum Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related technical field
- 10 years of experience in aerospace or launch vehicle integration and test operations
- Significant experience leading and performing integration and test operations for complex aerospace systems
- Experience supporting Preliminary Design Review (PDR), Critical Design Review (CDR), and Test Readiness Reviews (TRR)
- Proven ability to develop and execute integration and test plans and procedures
- Strong understanding of systems engineering principles and integration processes
- Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot complex system-level issues
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong organizational and project coordination abilities
- Willingness and ability to travel
- Ability to work extended hours and non-standard schedules to support integration and test operations
- Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team
- Willingness to support launch operations, which may require travel and non-standard work hours
Desired Qualifications:
- Experience with launch vehicle or missile system integration and test
- Experience conducting operations at launch ranges (White Sands Missile Range, Wallops, etc.)
- Experience with range safety processes and flight safety requirements
- Experience coordinating and operating with range test personnel
- Experience with hazardous operations including ordnance and energetic handling
- Experience leading test teams and coordinating multi-disciplinary activities