Research & Test Engineer Associate

Position Overview

XploSafe LLC is seeking a full-time Research & Test Engineer Associate to support validation testing of advanced space suit components and sorbent materials while contributing to quality systems, SOP development, and production support activities.

This role sits between a traditional Research Associate and a Testing Engineer. The selected candidate will split time between operating and maintaining a specialized test rig under the direction of our research scientists and Test Rig Engineering Lead. The candidate will also support our ISO 9001.2015 (and similar) quality management efforts and day-to-day laboratory and production operations.

This is an ideal role for a STEM graduate who enjoys hands-on technical work, structured procedures, documentation, and working in a fast-paced R&D and manufacturing environment supporting aerospace and government customers.

Primary Responsibilities

Test Rig Operation & Validation Testing

• Operate and monitor a custom test rig used for validation of space suit components and sorbent materials
• Execute test plans developed by the research team and engineering lead
• Collect, document, and report test data with high attention to detail
• Assist in troubleshooting and improving test procedures and hardware
• Maintain test equipment, calibration status, and test logs

Quality Management & SOP Support

• Assist with implementation and maintenance of XploSafe’s ISO 9001.2015 quality management system
• Help write, revise, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Perform internal audits for adherence to SOPs and quality processes
• Support documentation control and recordkeeping requirements

Laboratory, Production, & Operations Support

• Assist with production and fulfillment of customer orders
• Support laboratory organization, maintenance, and inventory, including equipment maintenance and repair as needed
• Assist with shipping, receiving, and material handling
• Provide general support to research, engineering, and operations teams as needed

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, engineering, physics, biology, or related STEM field
• Relevant job experience may be substituted for formal education
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written procedures precisely
• Comfortable working with chemicals and reagents, mechanical systems, instrumentation, and test equipment
• Strong organizational and documentation skills
• Ability to work independently and in a team-oriented environment
• Willingness to learn ISO 9001 (or similar) quality systems, if not already experienced

Preferred Experience

• Experience with ISO 9001 or similar AS9100 quality management systems
• Experience operating laboratory or engineering test equipment
• Exposure to instrumentation, data collection, or validation testing
• Experience writing technical documentation or SOPs
• Mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting ability
• Experience in laboratory, aerospace, manufacturing, or R&D environments

What Makes This Role Unique

• Direct involvement in testing hardware used for human spaceflight applications
• Exposure to both research, engineering validation, and quality systems
• Opportunity to develop skills across R&D, engineering testing, and quality management
• Work alongside PhD scientists, team leads, and technicians
• Meaningful work supporting aerospace, defense, and safety technologies

Benefits (Fully Paid by Employer)

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Paid time off (starting at 2 weeks per year)
• Employer matches employee’s 401k contributions up to 4% of annual pay

Benefits (Paid by Employee – Averages < $30/month)

• Short Term Disability insurance
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment insurance (AD&D)
• Life insurance ($50k benefit)

How to Apply

Submit a resume and cover letter to miket@xplosafe.com and/or through the Indeed portal, describing relevant education, experience, and position interest in any hands-on testing and quality systems work. Please include three professional references.

Note: This position will open on 22 April 2026. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, or until 22 June 2026, whichever is first.

Pay: $52,000.00 - $69,680.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• AD&D insurance
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid parental leave
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person