Test Engineer I, Vehicle Stages Verified today
About the role
You will support Firefly Aerospace's Flight and Test Operations team, responsible for operating test stands at the Briggs, Texas facility and supporting launch operations at sites including Vandenberg, California. You will work hands-on to test and validate hardware, developing both the procedures and infrastructure - mechanical, electrical and software - needed to operate rocket vehicle stages and subsystems to flight-like limits.
You will be expected to work in the field on time-sensitive, hands-on applications. You will be self-sufficient, adaptive and responsive to challenges, learning new skills and taking ownership of problems.
Your responsibilities
- Set up and perform tests on valves, mechanisms, COPVs and other aerospace components
- Develop test procedures for launch vehicle systems and subsystems
- Execute test plans on console using voice communications and data display/control systems
- Develop and execute system validations, activations and upgrades to prepare test stands
- Manage test stand scheduling for operations and maintenance
- Troubleshoot issues and support failure investigations and anomaly resolution
- Design and develop automated scripts for test and launch operations
- Work with test and launch site engineers to optimize system designs and operations
- Identify continuous improvement opportunities for performance, reliability and cost
- Analyze test data using numerical tools to ensure hardware operates as expected
- Ensure all operations are performed safely, on time and professionally
Required qualifications
- BS in Engineering or related engineering discipline
- Experience building, troubleshooting or operating fluid systems
- Ability to work in collaborative multidisciplinary environments
- Strong understanding of engineering fundamentals
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
- Experience with 3D and 2D CAD software
- Ability to lift 30 pounds and stand for extended periods
- Ability to work on test stands and use standard mechanical and electrical tools
- Willingness to travel to support launch operations in California (up to 25%)
Desired qualifications
- Ability to read and understand technical drawings including GD&T and P&IDs
- Experience with test plan generation
- Ability to perform fluid system calculations for liquids, cryogenic liquids and gases
- Independent problem-solving with minimal guidance
- Ability to prioritize tasks in high-pressure fast-paced environments
- Familiarity with instrumentation and deployment methods
- Experience with data acquisition, control methods and data analysis tools
Employment details
This position is located at Firefly Aerospace's manufacturing and test facility in Briggs, Texas, north of Austin. You must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State to conform to ITAR regulations.