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Test Engineer - Plasma Diagnostics

Hawthorne, CA

Who We’re Looking For

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions with unmatched flexibility and propulsion capability. We build fast and iterate quickly.

We are seeking a highly motivated Test Engineer with relevant professional experience or academic training related to plasma sources, devices, and diagnostics. The ideal candidate has a strong background in plasma physics and diagnostic techniques, including instrumentation, hands-on hardware implementation and test execution, and data analysis and interpretation. You will work in a fast-paced, high-performance environment, collaborating across engineering R&D, test, analysis, and hardware manufacturing teams to advance next-generation propulsion products and rapidly deliver flight-ready hardware.

This role requires strong proficiency in experimental plasma physics, as well as the ability to work in a fast-paced R&D environment. Previous experience or a strong interest in propulsion systems (electric, fluid, chemical) is a plus.

Where You’ll Make an Impact

  • Lead experimental development and characterization of electric propulsion devices, such as Hall Effect Thrusters and RF Thrusters
  • Design, implement, and operate plasma diagnostic systems including Langmuir probes, emissive probes, retarding potential analyzers, and optical diagnostics
  • Analyze and interpret experimental data to support and validate existing analytical and computational models
  • Develop test plans and execute hot-fire test campaigns in vacuum chamber environments
  • Documents test results and contribute to technical reports, proposals, and publications
  • Support thruster and propulsion system design and build iterations

What It Takes

  • B.S. in Physics, Aerospace, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related discipline (M.S. or Ph.D. preferred)
  • 3+ years of experience with plasma physics diagnostics (relevant to electric propulsion and/or RF plasmas preferred)
  • Strong proficiency with instrumentation, experimental methods, and data analysis
  • Solid understanding of plasma physics and propulsion systems
  • Programming skills in Python, MATLAB, or similar for data analysis
  • Hands-on experience with high-vacuum chamber testing
  • Ability to design and troubleshoot experimental hardware
  • Strong technical writing and communication skills
  • Proven ability to work in a fast-paced, hands-on environment

Nice-to-Have Experience

  • Experience with characterizing RF plasmas sources or electric propulsion (e.g., Hall Effect Thruster) discharge plumes
  • Hands-on experience with spacecraft propulsion system design, build, integration, and flight qualification
  • Knowledge of manufacturing methods (machining, composites, additive manufacturing)
  • Experience working with NASA and/or DoD programs

What You’ll Get

  • Innovation – The opportunity to develop and test next-generation spacecraft propulsion systems.
  • Impact – See your work directly enable mission success.
  • Growth – Opportunities for technical leadership in a fast-growing space company.
  • Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and top-tier benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharing.

Location: Hawthorne, CA

Compensation: $120,000 to $180,000 Annual Salary Depending on Experience

Additional Requirements

To 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 the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State

Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.

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