Test Engineer - Ground

Job Overview As a Test Engineer - Ground at Helsing, you will play a crucial role in professionalizing the Ground-Side Engineering, focusing on de-risking the launcher and control link to ensure airworthiness. Responsibilities Pre-Flight De-risking: Execute high-repetition 'burn-in' tests on new firmware and hardware configurations for the Ground Control Station and data links. Launch System Validation: Conduct engineering tests for mechanical launch systems to ensure repeatable, safe exit velocities and structural integrity. The 'Iron Bird' Connection: Maintain a ground-based 'Iron Bird' to test system-wide reactions to simulated component failures. Regression Library: Build a library of ground-side edge cases and failure cases that must be passed before any new sub-system is cleared for flight integration. Documentation of Proof: Generate technical 'De-risking Reports' and manage relevant testing cards in JIRA. Requirements Infrastructure & GSE Mastery: Deep technical understanding of Ground Control Stations (GCS), pneumatic/mechanical launchers, tracking antenna arrays, and ruggedized power and control systems. Interface & Protocol Testing: Ability to analyze communication protocols between ground and air (IRONBIRD) to de-risk command-and-control latency and packet loss. HIL/SIL Setup: Experience building and maintaining Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) and Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) environments. Environmental & Stress Testing: Competence in vibration, thermal, and EMI (Electromagnetic Interference) 'torture tests' on supporting hardware. Diagnostic Tooling: Skilled in using oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and network protocol analyzers for root-cause analysis. Nice to Have Bachelor's degree (B.Sc. or B.Eng.) in a relevant engineering discipline. Prior exposure to defense, dual-use, or regulated hardware in a test context. Experience in an aerospace or defense environment operating under ITAR/EAR or equivalent national defense export control frameworks. Benefits Competitive salary and VSOP options Relocation support: up to €2,500 and 4 weeks temporary accommodation Learning: €500/£450 yearly allowance Health & wellness: gym membership and mental health support (Nilo.health) Social: regular company events and monthly social allowances Enhanced parental leave: 22 weeks fully paid for primary caregivers & 6 weeks for secondary caregivers Family support: 5 days of paid family emergency leave, 100% remote work option during pregnancy and phased return to work Job Data by YubHub .