RESPONSIBILITIES
Develop and execute integrated test and launch operations across a global launch portfolio including Vandenberg Space Force Base (CA), Wallops Flight Facility (VA), Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (FL), and Esrange Space Center (Sweden)
Lead design reviews and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams - including GSE design engineers, vehicle engineers, software teams, technicians, and external partners - to drive ground-system upgrades, streamline operations, and establish standardized processes across all launch sites
Commission ground systems and support integrated vehicle/ground operations at the pad as an on-console operator
Support troubleshooting efforts, resolve any issues and non-conformances that arise during operations/testing, and lead anomaly investigations
Contribute to the development of automation sequences and operational software tools to support test and launch execution
Write procedures for launch pad configuration, vehicle operations, and propellant/pressurant handling during countdown operations
Participate in development of company processes, guidelines, and training in test and launch operations
Collaborate with customers, external stakeholders, and design teams to ensure interoperability and compliance with regulatory and range safety requirements
Requires up to 25% travel to test and launch sites to support overall program needs
QUALIFICATIONS
Required
Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, or related engineering discipline
2+ years of hands-on experience in test operations, launch operations, or similar high-consequence operational environments (e.g., oil & gas, nuclear, defense)
On-console experience in real-time operations
Experience executing automation sequences and procedures for hazardous, time-critical, or mission-critical systems
Proficiency in at least one programming language (Python, MATLAB, or similar) with demonstrated application to operational tooling, data analysis, or automation
Comfortable working in launch site environments with field testing, heavy equipment, and hazardous materials
Willingness to support off-hour shifts during launch operations
Desired
Master's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, or related engineering discipline
Foundational understanding of launch vehicle and ground subsystems, including fluid systems, propulsion, avionics, structures, and software/controls
Experience with distributed control systems, SCADA platforms, or custom data acquisition and control architectures
Experience with hazard and risk analysis tools (i.e., FMEA, FMECA, FHA, HAZOP, etc.)
Experience with standards and regulations (ASME, NFPA, NEC, AFSPCMAN 91-710, NASA-STD-5005, GSFC-STD-8009, etc.)
Prior experience at a federal launch range (e.g., VSFB, CCSFS, KSC, WFF, PSC)
Able to prioritize and execute tasks in a high pressure fast-paced environment
Ability to convey complex technical information clearly and concisely to technical and non-technical audiences
Demonstrated project management experience, including vendor management, ability to communicate with senior leaders, development of budgets and schedules, etc.
Familiarity with Atlassian products (i.e., Confluence and Jira) and version control systems (i.e., SVN, Bitbucket, Git, etc.)
Ability to obtain security clearance
Firefly offers outstanding benefits for our employees, including generous health, dental and vision plans with low plan deductibles, parental leave, relocation benefits, educational reimbursement, short term disability, and flexible PTO options.
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Firefly Aerospace, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Firefly is governed based on merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
