Spacecraft Test Technician IV

Firefly Aerospace; Texas; On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental and vision plans

Parental leave

Educational reimbursement

Short term disability

Flexible PTO

Job summary

Firefly Aerospace is seeking a motivated Spacecraft Test Technician for our Briggs, TX facility. This hands-on role focuses on building expertise in propulsion testing and working with hypergolic systems as part of the Blue Ghost lunar lander program.

You will partner with engineers and technicians to perform critical test operations on the Spectre engine, including hardware prep, setup, and maintenance, while ensuring safety and quality in a fast-paced aerospace environment.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in aerospace, R&D or related fields.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical manuals.
• Familiarity with pressurized system safety and safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Support hotfire tests for Spectre propulsion engine and related systems.
• Set up and operate ground support equipment including propellant transfer and safety systems.
• Assist engineers during propellant loading, engine conditioning, ignition sequences, and safing operations.
• Follow and provide feedback on work instructions for complex mechanical systems.
• Maintain equipment logs and perform routine maintenance and calibration.
• Participate in safety reviews and continuous improvement of test procedures.

Skills

Aerospace experience

Reading engineering drawings

Instrumentation experience

Safety procedures

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Associate degree or technical certification in Aerospace Technology

Tools

Pressure/temperature sensors

Hydraulics systems

Job description

Firefly Aerospace is a space and defense technology company on a mission to reliably and repeatedly launch, land, and operate space systems from Earth to the Moon and beyond. As the partner of choice for critical space missions, Firefly is the first commercial company to launch a satellite to orbit with 24-hour notice and the first company to achieve a successful Moon landing. Headquartered in north Austin, Texas, Firefly is looking for passionate, hardworking innovators to join our team and help fuel our successful trajectory into space.

SUMMARY

We 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.

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
• Clean and passivate hardware using means such as solvent/chemical, mechanical, ultrasonic, and precision cleaning methods
• Perform manual deburring, edge breaking, and polishing on machined aerospace fittings and components
• Perform 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 operations
• Maintain accurate equipment logs and maintenance records
• Support and participate in operational readiness activities and safety reviews
• Participate in continuous improvement efforts for test procedures, facility capabilities, and operational efficiency

QUALIFICATIONS

• Required
• 7 years of experience (or equivalent) in aerospace, aircraft, R&D, or related industrial fields
• Working knowledge of fluid systems, including pressurized testing and leak check procedures
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and technical manuals
• A demonstrated high level of problem‑solving skills working in a team environment
• Lift and carry 50 lbs. for limited durations
• A willingness to work flexible hours to meet the demands of spacecraft engine testing
• Familiarity with pressurized system safety
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality workmanship
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment
• Associate degree or technical certification in a relevant field (Aerospace Technology, Mechanical Technology, Manufacturing, etc.)
• Experience with engine‑related hardware in an aerospace environment
• OSHA HAZWOPER certification or experience working with hazardous materials
• Working knowledge of a variety of tube/fluid applications including GN2, GHe, Hydraulics
• Familiarity with hypergolic engine test and decontamination procedures
• Experience cleaning systems to aerospace standards
• Hands‑on experience with instrumentation (pressure, temperature, flow sensors)
• Experience with precision measurement tools and equipment calibration

Firefly offers outstanding benefits for our employees, including generous health, dental and vision plans with low plan deductibles, parental leave, 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.