Launch Engineer, Operations

Firefly Aerospace; Cedar Park (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace company is seeking an experienced Engine Test Engineer in Cedar Park, Texas. This role involves the development and execution of test operations across multiple global launch sites, ensuring compliance and driving innovative solutions. Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in engineering and at least 5 years of operational experience. The position offers comprehensive benefits and requires U.S. citizenship due to government regulations.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on experience in test operations, launch operations, or similar high-consequence operational environments.
• On-console experience in real-time operations.
• Willingness to support off-hour shifts during launch operations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute test operations across a global launch portfolio.
• Lead troubleshooting efforts during operations/testing and lead anomaly investigations.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to drive ground-system upgrades.

Skills

Hands-on experience in test operations

Proficiency in Python or MATLAB

Experience with automation sequences

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering

Master's degree in relevant engineering discipline

Tools

SCADA platforms

Atlassian products (Confluence, Jira)

Job description

Overview

Engine Test Engineer position at Firefly Aerospace. The role supports end-to-end space transportation programs and propulsion-system testing across a growing portfolio of launch sites. Location options: CO, CA, TX, FL, VA.

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 to drive ground-system upgrades, streamline operations, and establish standardized processes across all launch sites
• Commission ground systems and lead integrated vehicle/ground operations at the pad as an on-console operator
• Lead troubleshooting efforts, resolve issues and non-conformances during operations/testing, and lead anomaly investigations
• Own 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
• Lead development of company processes, guidelines, and training in test and launch operations
• Collaborate with customers, external stakeholders, and design teams to ensure interoperability and regulatory/range-safety compliance
• Provide technical write-ups for proposals and tailoring of regulations
• Direct the work of Operations team members and support hiring efforts
• Travel up to 25% to test and launch sites to support program needs

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, or related engineering discipline
• 5+ years of hands-on experience in test operations, launch operations, or similar high-consequence operational environments
• On-console experience in real-time operations
• Experience developing 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
• System-level 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 (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 to technical and non-technical audiences
• Demonstrated project management experience, including vendor management and schedule/budget development
• Familiarity with Atlassian products (Confluence, Jira) and version control systems (SVN, Bitbucket, Git)
• Ability to obtain security clearance

Compliance and Benefits

Firefly offers comprehensive benefits. To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible for required authorizations. Firefly Aerospace, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment is based on merit and qualifications and will not be influenced by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or any other protected status.