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Launch Engineer, Operations II Verified today

Firefly Aerospace · Texas · Space Systems · first seen 2026-09-12
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About the role

The Launch Site Development team is hiring for high-impact, dynamic engineering positions for those who thrive on solving real problems in diverse environments. Lead the development and execution of mission-critical test and launch operations across a growing portfolio of launch sites, from historical US-based pads to greenfield builds, including Wallops Flight Facility and Esrange, Sweden.

Take ownership of the integrated operations layer that ties every subsystem together. Write the procedures, build the automation, sit on console, and drive the cross-functional decisions that get vehicles off the pad safely. You will work across every ground and vehicle subsystem, serving as the connective tissue between fluids, propulsion, avionics, structures, software, and ground systems teams.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute integrated test and launch operations across launch sites including Vandenberg Space Force Base (CA), Wallops Flight Facility (VA), Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (FL), and Esrange Space Center (Sweden)
  • Lead design reviews and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including GSE design engineers, vehicle engineers, software teams, technicians, and external partners
  • Commission ground systems and support integrated vehicle and ground operations at the pad as an on-console operator
  • Support troubleshooting efforts, resolve issues and non-conformances during operations and testing, and lead anomaly investigations
  • Contribute to development of automation sequences and operational software tools
  • Write procedures for launch pad configuration, vehicle operations, and propellant and pressurant handling during countdown operations
  • Participate in development of company processes, guidelines, and training in test and launch operations
  • Collaborate with customers, external stakeholders, and design teams to ensure interoperability and compliance with regulatory and range safety requirements
  • Travel up to 25% to test and launch sites to support program needs

Required qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, or related engineering discipline
  • 2 or more years of hands-on experience in test operations, launch operations, or similar high-consequence operational environments (oil and gas, nuclear, defense)
  • On-console experience in real-time operations
  • Experience executing automation sequences and procedures for hazardous, time-critical, or mission-critical systems
  • Proficiency in at least one programming language (Python, MATLAB, or similar) with demonstrated application to operational tooling, data analysis, or automation
  • Comfortable working in launch site environments with field testing, heavy equipment, and hazardous materials
  • Willingness to support off-hour shifts during launch operations

Desired qualifications

  • Master's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, or related engineering discipline
  • Foundational understanding of launch vehicle and ground subsystems, including fluid systems, propulsion, avionics, structures, and software and controls
  • Experience with distributed control systems, SCADA platforms, or custom data acquisition and control architectures
  • Experience with hazard and risk analysis tools (FMEA, FMECA, FHA, HAZOP)
  • Experience with standards and regulations (ASME, NFPA, NEC, AFSPCMAN 91-710, NASA-STD-5005, GSFC-STD-8009)
  • Prior experience at a federal launch range (VSFB, CCSFS, KSC, WFF, PSC)
  • Ability to prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment
  • Ability to convey complex technical information clearly to technical and non-technical audiences
  • Demonstrated project management experience including vendor management, communication with senior leaders, and development of budgets and schedules
  • Familiarity with Atlassian products (Confluence, Jira) and version control systems (SVN, Bitbucket, Git)
  • Ability to obtain security clearance

Export requirements

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.