Test Systems Specialist

Job Summary 

Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) supports the effective and timely development and operation of national security systems through scientific research and the application of advanced technologies. PSL has more than 150 specialized laboratories used to test, analyze, and troubleshoot virtually every aspect of rocket and satellite system design, development, construction, deployment, and operation. The expertise of the laboratories’ technical staff allows PSL to stay abreast of new technological developments and program support issues associated with rapidly evolving space systems. 

The Propulsion Science Department (PSD) is seeking a Test Systems Specialist (Technical Specialist – Electromechanical III) with hands-on mechanical, electrical, and data acquisition / instrumentation experience in research and development (R&D) environments to support laboratory test operations. Our section solves a wide range of launch and spacecraft propulsion-related issues at various phases, from technology proof-of-concept to anomaly resolution of propulsion systems currently in use.  

The selected candidate will be required to work full-time on-site at our facility in  El Segundo, CA. 

Highlights of our lab's capabilities can be seen here: Virtual Tour 

What You’ll Be Doing 

• Design and build test fixtures, test setups, and test stands for experimental R&D environments 

• Configure data acquisition hardware (measurement modules, PLCs, instrumentation) and program data collection / control sequences for experimental systems 

• Install, calibrate, and configure sensors, transducers, thermocouples, and other measurement devices 

• Prepare laboratory equipment / systems for experimental runs and support test operations in collaboration with scientists and engineers 

• Build, install, and maintain pneumatic, hydraulic, and electrical control systems, including valves, regulators, pumps, hazardous high-pressure gas, and cryogenic systems 

• Perform routine maintenance on laboratory equipment and facilities, maintain organized lab spaces, and execute general facility upkeep tasks 

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements Test Systems Specialist (Technical Specialist – Electromechanical III) include: 

• High School Diploma or GED certificate is required

• Minimum of (3) years of professional experience in a hands-on technical, test, or operations environment is required

• Experience with test electronics and data acquisition systems, including sensor wiring, control/communication systems, and troubleshooting 

• Ability to assemble and install pressurized fluid systems and mechanical components / test setups 

• Experience supporting test operations and familiarity with laboratory safety protocols 

• Ability to maintain laboratory equipment, facilities, and organized workspaces 

• This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

How You Can Stand Out 

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these: 

• Installation and operation of instrumentation: load cells, pressure transducers, thermocouples, accelerometers, strain gauges, flowmeters is preferred
• Flow system components: valves, pumps, regulators, piping/tubing
• NI LabVIEW, DAQ system development, and PLC programming
• Mechanical CAD design software
• High-hazard test facilities and laboratory environment maintenance
• Chemical laboratory safety, vacuum systems, compressed gases, and cryogenic systems