Structural Testing Engineer

ABOUT ASTROBASE SPACE TECHNOLOGIES

Astrobase is a pioneering spacetech startup founded by prominent Senior ISRO scientists and IIT Bombay alumni with over 20 years of experience in designing, manufacturing, testing and flying advanced Cryogenic Launch Vehicles. Driven by a vision to make India a Space tech powerhouse, we are developing innovative launch vehicles that will transform space exploration. At Astrobase, you’ll be part of a team creating history in the Indian space industry. Our goal is to become the first private space company from India to land on the moon economically.

Role Overview:

We are building a reusable, all-liquid launcher powered by the best-in-class 80-ton Astrobase FFSC LOX/methane engine, at the fastest pace globally. As Structural Testing Engineer, you will lead the planning, design, and execution of structural tests for launch vehicle structures — including cryogenic propellant tanks, domes, interstages, and primary load-bearing structures.

The role involves designing test fixtures, developing structural test plans, instrumenting test articles, and executing qualification tests, working closely with structural design, propulsion, manufacturing, and instrumentation teams to validate flight hardware.

This position is critical in ensuring the structural integrity and flight readiness of launch vehicle systems.

Key Responsibilities

1. Structural Test Planning

•    Develop test strategies and test plans for structural qualification of launch vehicle components and assemblies.

•    Prepare test procedures, risk assessments, and safety documentation.

2. Test Fixture & Rig Design

•    Design test fixtures, load introduction systems, and support structures (e.g., compression rings, load frames, saddle supports).

•    Ensure uniform load transfer and correct boundary conditions for thin shell structures.

3. Structural Test Execution

•    Conduct tests including:

o    Pressure tests of cryogenic tanks

o    Axial compression tests

o    Combined pressure and mechanical loading

o    Buckling tests

o    Proof and ultimate load tests

4. Instrumentation & Data Acquisition

•    Define instrumentation plans including:

o    Strain gauges

o    LVDTs

o    Load cells

o    Pressure transducers

o    Digital Image Correlation (DIC) where required

•    Monitor tests and ensure high-quality data acquisition.

5. Test Data Analysis

•    Generate test reports and qualification documentation.

6. Cross-functional Collaboration

•    Work with:

o    Structural design team

o    Manufacturing and welding teams

o    FEA analysts

Required Qualifications

•    B.Tech / M.Tech in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Structural Engineering.

•    3–6 years of experience in structural testing, aerospace structures, or pressure vessel testing.

•    Experience working with thin shell structures, tanks, or aerospace hardware.

Required Technical Skills

•    Strong understanding of structural mechanics and buckling of thin shells.

•    Experience with structural testing of pressure vessels or aerospace structures.

•    Knowledge of test fixture design and load introduction methods.

•    Familiarity with strain gauge instrumentation and test data acquisition systems.

•    Ability to interpret FEA results and correlate with test data.

Preferred Skills

•    Experience with cryogenic tanks or propellant tanks.

•    Knowledge of NASA / aerospace structural testing standards.

•    Experience with Ansys / Abaqus / Nastran.

•    Understanding of buckling knockdown factors and imperfection sensitivity.

•    Experience with hydraulic load frames or large structural test rigs.

WHY WORK WITH US?

At Astrobase, we believe in the power of human ingenuity and collaboration to push the boundaries of space exploration. As a team member, you’ll be:

1.    Creating History: Join us in developing cutting-edge launch vehicles, playing a pivotal role in transforming space access and shaping the future of space exploration.

2.    Collaborating with Experts: Work alongside ISRO scientists and industry veterans with decades of experience in designing India’s iconic space missions like Chandrayaan 3

3.    Growth Opportunities: As Astrobase scales, you’ll have the chance to take on leadership roles and be part of an expanding organization driving change in the Indian space sector.

4.    Pioneering Space Technology: Your contributions will not only impact Astrobase but also influence the global space ecosystem. Be part of something larger than yourself.