MGSE Engineering Manager – Ground Systems

Firefly Aerospace, Inc.; Austin, Northern (TX, KY); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental and vision plans

Parental leave

Educational & relocation reimbursement

Short term disability

Flexible PTO

Job summary

Firefly Aerospace, Inc. in Austin, TX seeks a Mechanical Engineering Manager to lead the MGSE engineering team and own the mechanical backbone of ground infrastructure.

You will architect and deliver mechanical systems for test stands, launch sites, and production facilities, ensuring performance, safety, and compliance. You will manage 15+ engineers, guide design decisions, and coordinate with internal customers to support multiple concurrent projects worth millions, while driving technical

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related Engineering or Technical discipline.
• 5 years of mechanical engineering experience in aerospace, oil and gas, defense, or similar industries.
• Strong background in structural analysis and design of steel structures.
• Proficiency with CAD software (NX or similar).
• Experience with FEA software (ANSYS or similar) for structural analysis.
• US Person status required due to ITAR/EAR requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead MGSE engineering team of 15+ mechanical engineers, designers, and staff.
• Set team goals, provide coaching and mentorship, and conduct performance reviews.
• Oversee design of MGSE systems including structures, mechanical handling equipment, integration jibs, test adapters, transport fixtures, and lift equipment.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with program milestones.
• Support commissioning and operational handover of mechanical systems.

Skills

Leadership

Mechanical engineering

Structural analysis

NX CAD

ANSYS

AISC design

Budget management

Project management

Materials science

Welding & fabrication

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

NX

ANSYS

Job description

Firefly Aerospace, Inc. in Austin, TX seeks a Mechanical Engineering Manager to lead the MGSE engineering team and own the mechanical backbone of ground infrastructure.

You will architect and deliver mechanical systems for test stands, launch sites, and production facilities, ensuring performance, safety, and compliance. You will manage 15+ engineers, guide design decisions, and coordinate with internal customers to support multiple concurrent projects worth millions, while driving technical