Senior Design and Test Engineer

Subject Matter Expert – Design and Test Engineer

LOCATION: Moffett Field, CA

JOB STATUS: Part Time

CLEARANCE: Ability to pass a Federal Background Check

CERTIFICATION:

TRAVEL: As Needed

SALARY: $100-$120/hour

Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a Subject Matter Expert located at the NASA Ames Research Center in Moffett Field, CA. Astrion seeking a subject matter expert in Arc jet probe design at NASA Ames Research Center.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS

• Knowledge of thermal protection systems, hypersonic environments, or high‑temperature material testing.
• Experience in instrumentation design, flight‑like probe/sensor assembly, or complex test system integration.
• Experience in test planning, experimental validation, or arc jet/ground test facilities (preferred).
• Ability to communicate technical findings clearly through reports, reviews, and documentation.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS 

• Experience working in aerospace, R&D environments, or government facilities.
• Familiarity with thermal protection system components or arc jet facility hardware.
• Experience in sensor design and testing.

 RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assemble a new probe/sensor system based on designs developed by NASA subject‑matter experts.
• Develop test objectives and measurement requirements needed to evaluate the new probe’s performance.
• Create a detailed arc jet test plan, including procedures, instrumentation, verification steps, and qualification criteria.
• Conduct arc jet testing in the NASA Ames Arc Jet Facility to demonstrate performance and validate design requirements.
• Analyze test results and conduct a formal review with leadership from the Entry Systems Division.
• Prepare technical documentation to support the qualification, adoption, and long-term sustainment of the probe design for future missions.