Test Ops Manager

At Stoke, we believe a thriving space economy will enable a vibrant, sustainable, and equitable future here on Earth. That is why we’re building Nova, our fully and rapidly reusable launch vehicle. Designed for daily flight, Nova tackles the core challenges of space transportation by reducing cost, increasing availability, and improving reliability. By radically lowering launch costs and increasing flight cadence, we’re helping create a truly scalable space industry.

Our team is mission-driven, collaborative, and empowered to take ownership of their work. If you want to work alongside some of the most dedicated and talented people on Earth, we’d love to have you join us.

Reusable systems are the key to seamlessly connecting Earth and space. A key ingredient to making reusable systems is the ability to test hardware quickly. As the Vehicle Test Operations Manager at our Moses Lake Test Site, you will be responsible for managing the team that builds and operates the vehicle test facilities at the test site. This includes vehicle component testing as well as integrated vehicle testing. You will need to ensure safe and reliable operation while pushing to find ways to move quickly and simplify. You will aid in iterating on vehicle design, providing feedback that will be critical to designing a rocket that can operate at a high cadence. You will work with hardware and software, mechanical systems and electrical systems. You must be ready to stay focused, move fast, self-direct, and learn on the fly.

Minimum Qualifications 

• Exceptional command of fundamentals
• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering, or similar
• 5+ years experience with rocket test operations, including on-console engineering support
• 2+ years experience as a team lead or people manager
• Experience designing fluid systems such as: P&ID creation, line sizing and component specification, hazard analysis, CAD modeling
• Hands-on experience building and integrating mechanical and electronic systems
• Experience writing and operating test procedures
• Experience writing and running automation for ground and vehicle systems
• Experience with high pressure or hazardous environments
• Experience with real-time and post-test data analysis
• Detailed knowledge of and experience troubleshooting mechanical fluid components such as: cryogenic and high pressure valves, pressure regulators, pumps, relief valves
• Detailed knowledge of and experience troubleshooting instrumentation such as: pressure transducers, thermocouples, RTDs, silicon diodes, flow meters, high-speed pressure sensors, accelerometers
• Willing to work outdoors for long periods of time
• Able to stoop, bend, crawl, and lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted
• Passion for building something with high quality, willing to attend work with a positive and humble attitude, and willing to take ownership of large and small tasks to help the team be successful