Propulsion Engineer
mach
San Luis Obispo, CA · San Luis Obispo · United States
Posted Aug 17, 2026
- Full-time
- On-site
- Mach Propulsion
mach
San Luis Obispo, CA · San Luis Obispo · United States
Posted Aug 17, 2026
ABOUT MACH INDUSTRIES Founded in 2023, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 350 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition. Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security. THE ROLE Mach Industries is seeking a Propulsion Engineer to support the calibration and testing of advanced small engine systems for the next generation of airborne defense platforms. As a Propulsion Test Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the performance, reliability, and manufacturability of our propulsion systems, helping to maintain the United States’ strategic edge in modern warfare. Your expertise will drive the development and validation of high-performance engines that power autonomous defense platforms. Mach Propulsion is redefining the small turbine engine—designing for high-rate production, scalability, modularity, and adaptability to help the United States maintain its edge in a rapidly evolving defense landscape. This is a chance to shape a new kind of propulsion company, one built around modern, automated manufacturing to deliver capable engines at meaningful volumes. In this role, you will collaborate with a multidisciplinary engineering team to create high-performance, manufacturable systems that meet demanding mission requirements. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Create test systems and infrastructure including test cells and instrumentation packages. - Develop control systems for test cells maintaining high accuracy and quality of data reported. - Execute verification and validation test plans of engines and related systems. - Assist in assembly, integration, and testing activities for first articles and first flight assets. - Collaborate with propulsion design, systems integration, and manufacturing teams to ensure test results inform system optimization. - Analyze test data to validate engine performance, identify anomalies, and recommend improvements. - Support short-term off-site testing at various test ranges as needed to meet project milestones. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS - 2+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, with a focus on engine systems, drivetrain, or complex mechanical systems, emphasis on test preferred. - Multi-talented across overall test ops, understanding of flight test development campaigns and helping to lead the engineering team on requirements. - Proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., NX, SolidWorks) and experience with engineering analysis tools (e.g., FEA, CFD). - Bachelor’s degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field. - Hands-on experience with prototyping, testing, and iteration of mechanical systems. - Willing to support short-term off-site testing at various test ranges. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS - Experience testing small turbine engines or propulsion systems for aerospace or defense applications. - Familiarity with test cell design, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems for propulsion testing. - Knowledge of flight test campaigns and aerospace validation processes. - Experience with control systems development for high-precision testing environments. - Understanding of defense industry standards for propulsion system testing and certification. Disclosures This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license. Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development. Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out! INTRODUCTION Welcome to Mach's Recruiting Privacy Policy. Your privacy is important to us, and we are committed to protecting your personal information. This policy outlines the types of information we collect, how we use it, and the measures we take to safeguard it during the recruiting process. INFORMATION WE COLLECT 1. Personal Identifiers: Such as your name, address, email, phone number, and social security number. 2. Resume Information: Including your employment history, educational background, skills, and references. 3. Assessment Results: Results of interviews, tests, or background checks. 4. Technical Information: Data collected through our recruiting software or website, such as IP addresses or browser type. HOW WE USE YOUR INFORMATION 1. Evaluation: To evaluate your suitability for employment. 2. Communication: To communicate with you about the recruitment process. 3. Compliance: To fulfill legal or regulatory requirements. 4. Improvement: To improve our recruiting process. HOW WE SHARE YOUR INFORMATION We may share your personal information with: 1. Internal Teams: Such as HR and hiring managers. 2. Service Providers: Third-party companies that assist with our recruiting process. 3. Legal Authorities: When required by law or regulation. DATA SECURITY We implement a variety of security measures to protect your personal information, including encryption, secure servers, and limited access to authorized personnel. YOUR RIGHTS 1. Access: You have the right to access your personal information. 2. Correction: The right to correct inaccurate data. 3. Deletion: The right to request deletion of your data, subject to legal limitations. 4. Objection: You may object to the processing of your data. CHANGES TO THIS POLICY We reserve the right to update this policy at any time. Updates will be posted on this page and, where appropriate, notified to you. CONTACT INFORMATION For any questions or concerns, please contact our Data Protection Officer at contact@machindustries.com. By applying for a job at Mach, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this Recruiting Privacy Policy.