Engine Technician II - AFRL

Test & Launch Ops Technician

At Blue Origin, we envision millions of people living and working in space for the benefit of Earth. We're working to develop reusable, safe, and low-cost space vehicles and systems within a culture of safety, collaboration, and inclusion. Join our team of problem solvers as we add new chapters to the history of spaceflight!

This role is part of Blue Origin Operations, which is comprised of Integrated Supply Chain, Test Operations, Safety, Quality, and Mission Assurance. This includes Manufacturing and Supply Chain support across all Blue Origin facilities.

We are seeking a skilled Test & Launch Ops Technician who will leverage technical expertise and operational excellence to ensure the readiness and integration of ground systems, vehicles, and engines for test and launch operations. This role involves the verification and validation of component and system integration, preparation of test and launch environments, and hands-on troubleshooting pre and post-mission. The Test & Launch Technician will collaborate across disciplines to uphold the highest standards of safety, reliability, and mission success for Blue Origin's spaceflight operations.

Position Specific Details

• Shifts: A | Mon-Fri (6am-2:30pm)
• Location: Lancaster, CA (AFRL)
• Relocation: Available

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare ground systems, vehicles, and engines for launch and test activities through setup, configuration, verification, and readiness tasks
• Verify correct integration and functionality of all components and systems prior to launch or test, following rigorous checklists and protocols
• Conduct pre-launch/test inspections, identifying and troubleshooting integration or system readiness issues, escalating as needed
• Support vehicle/engine integration tasks, including alignment, connections, instrumentation setup, and data acquisition for launch/test events
• Assist in post-launch/test operations by performing disassembly, inspection, and verification of system status and integrity
• Operate material handling equipment (forklifts, lifts, cranes, etc.) and a variety of hand and power tools to facilitate launch/test operations
• Maintain clear documentation of readiness, integration, testing, and anomaly resolution activities in compliance with technical and operational standards
• Uphold high safety standards, reporting hazards and ensuring launch/test operations are conducted in safe and secure environments
• Participate in emergency response and critical operation procedures during test and launch activities
• Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, operations, and mission control teams to ensure seamless handoffs and technical support
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives for system integration, test protocols, and launch operations processes

Team Focus & Domain Expertise

Test & Launch Technicians at Blue Origin are part of a small, hardworking team that processes, integrates, and supports BE-7 lunar lander engines for ground test operations. As a Test & Launch Technician, you will receive and prepare engine hardware for test, assemble rocket engines and engine components per written procedures and engineering models, and integrate test articles onto dedicated test stands. You will operate engine and ground support equipment in preparation for test, work with tube and pressurized systems, and handle safety- and mission-critical hardware that directly supports Blue Origin's lunar lander program.

Working hand-in-hand with the Engines Business Unit, as well as ground systems engineering and technician teams, you will share in the team's impact on engine integration, acceptance, and development testing. The team emphasizes rigorous adherence to procedures, safe work with hazardous chemicals and high-pressure systems, and disciplined 5S/FOD/ESD practices. Your contributions will help ensure test readiness, data quality, and system reliability - directly supporting safe human spaceflight and sustained lunar exploration.

Minimum Qualifications

• Experience in aerospace manufacturing, integration, testing, or related technical field: (0-3 years Level I Technician, 3+ years Level II Technician, 5+ years Level III Technician, 8+ years Sr Level Technician)
• Documented experience using standard mechanical tools (including, but not limited to wrenches, torque tools, drills, saws, calipers) and fabrication shop equipment (including, but not limited to mills, lathes, presses).
• Ability to lift up to 50lbs unassisted, work at heights (up to 20 feet), and operate in confined spaces as required for operational needs
• Proficiency with Windows operating systems and Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint), demonstrated by at least 1 year of routine use in a professional or academic setting
• Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience interpreting a variety of technical documentation, including drawings, schematics, diagrams, and P&IDs (Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams)
• Hands-on assembly, integration, test, troubleshooting, or validation experience across mechanical, electrical, and fluid systems—such as propellants, hydraulics, pneumatics, and cryogenics—in production, test, or operational environments
• Familiarity with ground support and environmental control equipment, launch/test environments, and range safety protocols in aerospace, defense, or space operations
• Demonstrated effectiveness executing complex operational protocols and multi-step checklists in safety- and quality-critical settings
• Technical certification, trade school, or relevant degree (e.g., aerospace, mechanical, electrical, or industrial engineering/technology)
• Participation in continuous improvement initiatives (Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen) in team environments
• Experience supporting new product introduction or transition from development to production
• Proficiency with instrumentation and data acquisition systems, including configuration, calibration, and monitoring (such as pressure, temperature, strain, and environmental sensors)
• Skilled in assembly, inspection, mate/demate, and fabrication of wiring harnesses and electromechanical hardware—including use of crimping tools and related techniques
• Proven ability to deliver accurate, high-quality work and communicate effectively while collaborating with teams and stakeholders

Compensation Range for: CA applicants is $24.02-$33.63

Other site ranges may differ

Culture Statement

Don't meet all desired requirements? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At Blue Origin, we are dedicated to building an authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every desired qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Export Control Regulations

Applicants for employment at Blue Origin must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e. current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.

Background Check

• Required for all positions: Blue's Standard Background Check
• Required for Certain Job Profiles: Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) background check if at any time the role requires one to be on a military installation
• Required for Certain Job Profiles: Drivers who operate Commercial Motor Vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW), Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) or combination of power unit and trailer that meets or exceeds 10,001 lbs. and/or transports placardable amounts of hazardous materials by ground in any vehicle on a public road while in commerce, may be subject to additional Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations including: Driver Qualification Files, Medical Certification (obtained before onboarding), Road Test, Hours of Service, Drug and Alcohol Testing (CDL drivers only), vehicle inspection requirements, CDL requirements (if applicable) and hazardous materials transportation/shipping training.
• Required for certain Job Profiles: Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential, which includes pre-employment and random drug testing as well as DOT physical

Benefits

• Benefits include: Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability, 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%, and an Education Support Program.
• Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up