Ian Palmer

About Ian Palmer

Test Engineer with 6 years of experience planning, executing, and analyzing results of pneumatic, cryogenic, structural, dynamic, tribology and many other tests of aerospace components with Blue Origin and US Army Aviation and Missile Center. Skilled at data acquisition, test automation, test fixture design, and project engineering with a talent for leadership and communication.

Experience

1. Propulsion Engineer Ii

   Blue Origin

   Jun 2023 — Present · Kent, WA, US

   As a Component Test Engineer, I lead the development and execution of test campaigns that validate the performance and reliability of critical aerospace components. My current focus is on the BE-7 lunar lander engine, where I serve as the sole responsible test engineer for multiple flight-critical valves.Previously, I led the qualification of an in-space thruster through a comprehensive component-level test campaign, including thermal, vibration, and performance testing under simulated space conditions. These efforts directly supported flight readiness for propulsion hardware.My responsibilities span the full test lifecycle—from requirements interpretation and fixture design to data analysis and test report generation. I’ve also developed automated test systems for component acceptance testing, improving consistency, reducing cycle time, and enabling scalable throughput.Key areas of ownership:Valve and propulsion component testing on the BE-7 engineEnd-to-end test ownership for in-space thruster qualificationCustom test fixture design, analysis, and fabrication for thermal, pressure, and dynamic environmentsTest automation development for pneumatic and electromechanical systemsRoot cause analysis and hands-on troubleshooting during integration and testDriven by a commitment to test rigor and engineering excellence, I aim to deliver high-quality, decision-enabling data that de-risks flight hardware and supports rapid development timelines.

Education

• University of Virginia

  Bachelor of Science - BS, Aerospace Engineering

  2015 — 2019

Skills

• Metalworking
• Computer-Aided Design (Cad)
• Rapid Prototyping
• Programming
• Sailing Instruction
• Woodworking
• Team Leadership
• Milling