Chief Engineer, Advanced Technology & Propulsion

Firefly Aerospace; Leander (TX); On-site; USD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health plan

Dental plan

Vision plan

Parental leave

Relocation benefits

Educational reimbursement

Short term disability

Flexible PTO

Job summary

Firefly Aerospace, based in Texas, seeks a Chief Engineer to lead the Advanced Technology Department in designing, developing, and testing propulsion and related systems for current and future missions.

You will drive technical strategy, oversee execution, and mentor cross-functional teams to ensure safety, reliability, and mission success while collaborating with GNC, structures, avionics, and control groups.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• 15+ years in propulsion and fluid systems design, development and integration for aerospace.
• Proven leadership and mentoring of a high-performing technical team.
• Track record delivering complex systems from concept through flight qualification.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and attention to detail capabilities.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership and strategic direction for the Advanced Technology Department (ATD).
• Mentor ATD teams across analysis, components, propulsion, structures, avionics, and GNC.
• Collaborate with senior engineers and cross-functional groups to ensure seamless integration of ATD systems.
• Oversee design, evaluation, and testing of system components (turbomachinery, valves, injectors).
• Conduct analyses, simulations, and testing to validate performance and reliability.
• Identify risks and develop mitigation plans to ensure mission success.

Skills

Leadership

Propulsion systems knowledge

Systems engineering

Analytical thinking

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

CFD

FEA

Job description

Firefly Aerospace, based in Texas, seeks a Chief Engineer to lead the Advanced Technology Department in designing, developing, and testing propulsion and related systems for current and future missions.

You will drive technical strategy, oversee execution, and mentor cross-functional teams to ensure safety, reliability, and mission success while collaborating with GNC, structures, avionics, and control groups.