Launch Operations Engineer III - Real-Time Automation

Cedarparktexasedc; Cedar Park (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental and vision

Parental leave

Job summary

Firefly Aerospace seeks a Launch Engineer - Operations to lead integrated test and launch operations across a growing portfolio of sites. You will write procedures, build automation, and sit on console to drive cross-functional decisions that ensure safe vehicle launches.

The role requires 5+ years in test/launch operations, on-console real-time experience, and proficiency in Python or MATLAB. Travel up to 25% and a background in hazardous environments are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelors in mechanical, aerospace, or related engineering field.
• 5+ years in test/launch operations or similar high-consequence environments.
• On-console experience in real-time operations.
• Experience developing automation sequences and procedures for hazardous, time-critical systems.
• Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, or similar with application to tooling/automation.
• Comfortable working in launch-site environments with heavy equipment and hazardous materials.
• Willingness to support off-hour shifts during launches.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute integrated test and launch operations across a global portfolio.
• Lead design reviews with multidisciplinary teams to drive ground-system upgrades.
• Commission ground systems and lead vehicle/ground operations at the pad.
• Lead troubleshooting and anomaly investigations during operations.
• Develop automation sequences and operational software tools.
• Write procedures for pad configuration and propellant handling during countdowns.
• Lead development of company processes, guidelines, and training.
• Coordinate with customers and regulatory bodies for interoperability and safety.
• Provide technical write-ups for proposals and tailoring of regulations.
• Direct the work of Operations team members and support hiring.

Skills

On-console ops experience

Python

MATLAB

Test operations

Automation development

Hazardous materials

Shift work

Education

Bachelors in Mechanical/Aerospace/Electrical Engineering

Masters degree (desirable)

Tools

SCADA platforms

Data acquisition systems

Confluence

Jira

Job description

Firefly Aerospace seeks a Launch Engineer - Operations to lead integrated test and launch operations across a growing portfolio of sites. You will write procedures, build automation, and sit on console to drive cross-functional decisions that ensure safe vehicle launches.

The role requires 5+ years in test/launch operations, on-console real-time experience, and proficiency in Python or MATLAB. Travel up to 25% and a background in hazardous environments are required.