Spacecraft Test Technician IV

Firefly Aerospace; Bertram (TX); On-site; USD 52,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental and vision plans

Parental leave

relocation benefits

Educational reimbursement

Short term disability

Flexible PTO

Job summary

Firefly Aerospace seeks a Spacecraft Test Technician for our Briggs, TX facility to support Spectre propulsion engine testing and other liquid propulsion systems. You will perform hands-on hardware prep, test setup, equipment operation, and routine maintenance.

You will work with engineers to execute hotfire tests, maintain logs, and uphold safety standards while contributing to continuous improvement of procedures and facility capabilities in a fast-paced aerospace environment.

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of experience in aerospace, aircraft, R&D or related industrial fields.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical manuals.
• Experience with pressurized testing and leak checks procedures.
• Lift and carry 50 lbs for limited durations.
• Willingness to work flexible hours to support spacecraft engine testing.

Responsibilities

• Support the integration, instrumentation, and execution of hotfire tests for the Spectre propulsion engine and related liquid propulsion systems.
• Execute hands-on setup, checkout, and operation of ground support equipment including propellant transfer systems, pressurization systems, and safety systems.
• Assist engineers during propellant loading, engine conditioning, ignition sequences, and safing operations in accordance with approved procedures.
• Follow, review, and provide feedback on work instructions for complex mechanical systems and installations.
• Maintain accurate equipment logs and maintenance records.
• Participate in safety reviews and continuous improvement efforts for test procedures and facility capabilities.

Skills

Fluid systems

Engineering drawings

Technical manuals

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Communication

Safety awareness

Education

Associate degree or technical certification

Tools

Pumps

Tanks

Filtration systems

Ground support equipment

Calibration tools

Job description

ABOUT FIREFLY AEROSPACEFirefly Aerospace is a space and defense technology company that enables our world to launch, land, and operate in space – anywhere, anytime. As the partner of choice for critical space missions, Firefly is the only commercial company to launch a satellite to orbit with 24-hour notice and the only company to achieve a successful Moon landing. Our launch vehicles, lunar landers, and orbital vehicles provide government and commercial customers with full mission services from low Earth orbit to the Moon and beyond. Headquartered in north Austin, Texas, Firefly is looking for passionate, hardworking innovators to join our team and help fuel our successful trajectory into space.SUMMARYWe are seeking a motivated Spacecraft Test Technician to join our test operations team at our manufacturing and test facility in Briggs, TX. This is a hands-on technical role for someone passionate about building their career in aerospace propulsion testing and working directly with liquid propulsion systems supporting the Blue Ghost lunar lander program.As a Test Technician, you will work alongside experienced engineers and technicians performing critical test operations for the Spectre engine and other liquid propulsion systems. You will be responsible for hands-on hardware preparation, test setup, equipment operation, and system maintenance while developing your expertise with hypergolic propulsion testing.Testing Spectre will have a direct impact on the success of future lunar missions and will ultimately drive changes to the landscape of the space industry. Spectre is an engine that you will have a direct hands-on responsibility to enable our return to the lunar surface and beyond.RESPONSIBILITIESSupport the integration, instrumentation, and execution of hotfire tests for the Spectre propulsion engine and related liquid propulsion systemsExecute hands-on setup, checkout, and operation of ground support equipment including propellant transfer systems, pressurization systems, and safety systemsAssist engineers during propellant loading, engine conditioning, ignition sequences, and safing operations in accordance with approved proceduresFollow, review, and provide feedback on work instructions for complex mechanical systems and installationsClean and passivate hardware using means such as solvent/chemical, mechanical, ultrasonic, and precision cleaning methodsPerform manual deburring, edge breaking, and polishing on machined aerospace fittings and componentsPerform shop level maintenance and calibration of equipment such as pumps, tanks, filtration systems, scales, etc.Follow all safety protocols, hazard controls, and regulatory requirements for hypergolic propellant operationsMaintain accurate equipment logs and maintenance recordsSupport and participate in operational readiness activities and safety reviewsParticipate in continuous improvement efforts for test procedures, facility capabilities, and operational efficiencyQUALIFICATIONSRequired5-7 years of experience (or equivalent) in aerospace, aircraft, R&D, or related industrial fieldsWorking knowledge of fluid systems, including pressurized testing and leak check proceduresAbility to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical manualsA demonstrated high level of problem-solving skills working in a team environmentLift and carry 50 lbs. for limited durationsA willingness to work flexible hours to meet the demands of spacecraft engine testingFamiliarity with pressurized system safetyStrong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanshipExcellent communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team environmentDesiredAssociate degree or technical certification in a relevant field (Aerospace Technology, Mechanical Technology, Manufacturing, etc.)Experience with engine-related hardware in an aerospace environmentOSHA HAZWOPER certification or experience working with hazardous materialsWorking knowledge of a variety of tube/fluid applications including GN2, GHe, HydraulicsFamiliarity with hypergolic engine test and decontamination procedures, highly desired.Experience cleaning systems to aerospace standardsHands-on experience with instrumentation (pressure, temperature, flow sensors)Experience with precision measurement tools and equipment calibrationFirefly 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.