Hardware Test Engineer (Fluid/Thermal Systems)

This position requires access to export-controlled technology. Only U.S. citizens or nationals are eligible.

IRPI is at the forefront of space exploration technology, pioneering flight hardware that sustains life and enables discovery beyond Earth. We bridge the gap between first-principles research and operational reality, delivering critical systems for NASA and commercial partners from fluids and propellant management to crew-sustaining technologies like air revitalization, thermal management, PLSS subsystems, waste processing, filtration, bioreactors, fire safety, and many more. As a lean, high-performance team of engineers, we pair high-fidelity analysis with hands-on design, build, and test to solve multidisciplinary problems and expand the boundaries of human presence in space.

About the Role

We are looking for a hands-on Hardware Test Engineer to support our engineering team in the build-out and operation of test rigs for our space Environmental Control and Life Support Systems (ECLSS). In this role, you will partner directly with our senior engineers: they own the core system design and test objectives, and you own the physical test rig—build-out, commissioning, operation, and data quality.

You will translate test requirements into rig designs and P&IDs, procure components, assemble and instrument the hardware, set up the DAQ (LabVIEW or similar), execute experiments, and report results back to the team. Because our projects span fluids, thermodynamics, heat transfer, chemistry, and materials science, the testing will be varied and highly hands-on.

Additionally, you will help keep the lab and shop running smoothly (typically a small portion of the week): maintain basic supplies, track calibration intervals, and support upkeep of shared equipment such as 3D printers and tools so the testing environment stays organized and functional.

Key Responsibilities

Collaborative Rig Design

Partner with senior engineers to translate test objectives into practical, buildable test infrastructure. Contribute to rig architecture, component selection, tubing and layout design, sensor selection and placement, and overall system integration to ensure safe, repeatable, and instrumented testing.

P&ID Development & Technical Documentation

Create and maintain clear P&IDs and test configuration documentation. Support development of test plans, operating procedures, and safety protocols. Maintain configuration control of rig updates and ensure documentation reflects as-built hardware.

Procurement & Hardware Assembly

Own the Bill of Materials (BOM) for assigned test rigs. Source and procure components (e.g., Swagelok fittings, valves, regulators, sensors, tubing, structural hardware), manage vendor interactions, and track lead items. Physically assemble, plumb, and commission fluid and gas loops to ensure safe, leak-free operation under expected pressure and thermal conditions.

Instrumentation & DAQ Integration

Install and wire instrumentation including thermocouples, RTDs, pressure transducers, flow meters, humidity sensors, and other relevant sensors. Configure and maintain DAQ systems (LabVIEW or similar) to safely operate rigs, monitor critical parameters, and collect high-quality data. Implement basic interlocks and safeguards where appropriate.

Test Execution & Operations

Execute formal test plans and iterative development tests. Operate and monitor active rigs, troubleshoot anomalies, and make hardware adjustments as needed. Capture supporting visual data using high-resolution cameras, video systems, or microscopes when required.

Data Processing & Reporting

Reduce and process raw data into clear, usable results. Generate plots, summaries, and concise findings that communicate system behavior, anomalies, and performance trends. Present results to the engineering team and support design iteration with data-driven insight.

Lab & Shop Support (Secondary Responsibility)

Contribute to maintaining a safe, organized, and functional lab environment. This includes managing basic consumables, tracking equipment calibration intervals, and supporting upkeep of shared systems such as 3D printers, instrumentation, and hand tools. This is a supporting responsibility intended to keep testing efficient and reliable.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace, Manufacturing, or a closely related field (or equivalent practical experience demonstrating engineering-level capability).
• 2+ years of hands-on experience designing, building, and operating mechanical, fluid, or thermal test equipment (industry, research lab, or similar).
• Proficiency in SolidWorks (or equivalent CAD) to design/modularize test fixtures, create drawings, and communicate as-built changes.
• Ability to draft and maintain P&IDs and demonstrate strong understanding of fluid loop architecture (pressure/flow, venting, relief/safety, materials compatibility).
• Hands-on experience with tube/fitting systems (e.g., Swagelok), plumbing of fluid/gas loops, and leak checking/commissioning.
• Experience installing and wiring instrumentation (thermocouples/RTDs, pressure transducers, flow/humidity sensors) and troubleshooting signal integrity/noise issues.
• Working knowledge of DAQ and controls using LabVIEW (preferred) or an equivalent platform (NI DAQ, Python, MATLAB, etc.) to run test profiles and log data.
• Demonstrated ability to understand test intent and connect results to engineering decisions: interpret requirements, propose test methods, identify anomalies, and communicate likely causes/tradeoffs.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to produce clear test documentation and effectively close the loop with senior engineers using data, observations, and recommendations.

Benefits

• Salary: $95,000 – $125,000, based on experience

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical and dental insurance for employees and families
• Retirement: Employer contributions to help you build long-term security
• Time Off: Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and holiday schedule
• Family Support: Paid parental leave and flexibility to support work-life balance
• Performance Rewards: Annual bonus opportunities tied to company and individual success
• Professional Growth: Hands-on experience with flight hardware, mentorship from principals, and opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge space programs from day one
• Mission-Driven Work: Be part of a team developing breakthrough space hardware that directly impacts the future of exploration

How to Apply

Apply through our careers site. Be sure to answer all application questions fully and thoughtfully. Our hiring team reviews every application and may also consider you for other positions that align with your skills and interests.

Equal Opportunity Employer

IRPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected category.