Propulsion Test Engineer – Spacecraft
Firefly Aerospace
full-time
Posted on:
Location Type: Office
Location: Briggs • Texas • United States
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Tech Stack
About the role
- Lead the integration, instrumentation, and execution of hotfire tests for the Spectre propulsion engine and related liquid propulsion systems
- Develop comprehensive test plans, procedures, and operational sequences for complex propulsion system testing
- Serve as test conductor for critical test operations, managing console operations, data acquisition systems, and test team communications
- Perform and oversee hands-on setup, checkout, and operation of ground support equipment including propellant transfer systems, pressurization systems, and safety systems
- Execute propellant loading, engine conditioning, ignition sequences, and safing operations in accordance with approved procedures
- Analyze test data in real-time and post-test to verify system performance, identify anomalies, and validate test objectives using tools such as Python, LabView, or similar
- Lead anomaly investigations, root cause analysis, and implementation of corrective actions
- Collaborate with propulsion design engineers, systems engineers, and technicians to resolve technical issues and optimize test operations
- Support design reviews and provide test operations input to hardware and facility design efforts
- Develop and improve test infrastructure, instrumentation strategies, and operational capabilities
- Ensure all test operations comply with safety protocols, hazard controls, and regulatory requirements for hypergolic propellant operations
- Participate in hazard analyses, safety reviews, and operational readiness reviews
- Maintain accurate test documentation, configuration control, and test records
- Support development and review of facility procedures, work instructions, and safety documentation
- Work directly with stakeholders of the Blue Ghost Lunar Lander program and other Firefly propulsion development efforts
- Support test schedule development and resource planning for propulsion test campaigns
- Provide technical mentorship and training to junior test engineers and technicians
Requirements
- BS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline
- Minimum 2-3 years of hands-on experience with liquid rocket propulsion test operations, including test planning, execution, and data analysis
- Demonstrated experience leading or conducting liquid propulsion hotfire tests (engine, thruster, or integrated vehicle)
- Strong understanding of liquid propulsion systems including propellant feed systems, pressurization systems, ignition systems, and propellant chemistry
- Proficiency with fluid systems including valves, regulators, pressure vessels, propellant transfer systems, and leak detection methods
- Experience with data acquisition systems, instrumentation (pressure, temperature, flow, thrust), and sensor calibration
- Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, control schematics, and engineering drawings for complex fluid systems
- Demonstrated experience with test data analysis and reporting
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot complex systems under pressure
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Benefits
- generous health, dental and vision plans with low plan deductibles
- parental leave
- educational reimbursement
- short term disability
- flexible PTO options
Applicant Tracking System Keywords
Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.
Hard Skills & Tools
liquid rocket propulsiontest planningdata analysisanomaly investigationsroot cause analysispropellant feed systemspressurization systemsignition systemsfluid systemssensor calibration
Soft Skills
problem-solvingtroubleshootingcommunicationmentorshipcollaboration
Certifications
BS in Mechanical EngineeringBS in Aerospace EngineeringBS in Chemical Engineering