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Propulsion Engineer II - Spacecraft Engine Team Verified today

Firefly Aerospace · Texas · Propulsion · first seen 2026-08-04
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About Firefly Aerospace

Firefly Aerospace is a space and defense technology company developing reliable launch, landing, and orbital systems. Headquartered in north Austin, Texas, Firefly was the first commercial company to launch a satellite to orbit with 24-hour notice and the first to achieve a successful Moon landing.

About the Role

The Propulsion Engineer II works within the Spectre Engine team to develop hypergol engines for the Blue Ghost program. You will tackle complex challenges throughout the project lifecycle, from design and analysis to manufacturing, testing, and operational support. You will collaborate closely with structures, fluid systems, and avionics teams, take ownership of projects, and make critical decisions on leading-edge propulsion systems.

Responsibilities

  • Serve as Responsible Engineer for in-space propulsion hardware including main and attitude control engines, valves, and propellant tanks.
  • Develop new and innovative design concepts for propulsion integration and operations that reduce complexity and maximize reliability within budget.
  • Assist in developing manufacturing, integration, and test processes, including work instructions, test procedures, development testing, and initial build support.
  • Act as the primary point of contact for design, analysis, and operations of spacecraft fluid systems.
  • Perform flight operations as a primary operator for fluids and propulsion systems.
  • Own and execute development, qualification, and acceptance testing of flight hardware.
  • Execute design for manufacturability changes to enhance production efficiency and vehicle reliability.
  • Identify system risks and conduct corresponding trade studies to ensure successful vehicle operation.
  • Drive development of automation and test data analysis tools.

Required Qualifications

  • BS in Aerospace Engineering or related engineering discipline.
  • 3+ years of experience working on an aerospace engine or fluid system.
  • Strong engineering fundamentals in fluids, thermodynamics, and mechanics.
  • Experience in Siemens NX or equivalent CAD program.
  • Comprehension of design fundamentals including tolerancing, ASME Standards, ASTM, and GD&T.
  • Ability to effectively work in a multi-discipline team and provide technical guidance and insight.

Desired Qualifications

  • Master's Degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related engineering discipline.
  • 5+ years of progressive experience in related engineering discipline.
  • Experience with storable liquid propulsion (NTO/MMH, Hydrazine).
  • Experience leading technical reviews (design and analysis) or investigations (risk, anomaly, or trade studies).
  • Hands-on experience with integrating test articles and sub-assemblies for test or production.
  • Prior experience with data acquisition systems and test instrumentation including pressure transducers, thermocouples, resistance temperature detectors, flow meters, load cells, and accelerometers.
  • Experience with end-to-end ownership of technical projects from conception to delivery.
  • Strong interpersonal and organizational skills.

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.