Launch Engineer IV, Test and Launch Operations

Summary

The Vehicle and Launch Operations team is hiring high-impact, dynamic engineers who thrive on solving problems in diverse environments. This role will lead the development, execution, and continuous improvement of vehicle testing and launch operations across a growing portfolio of launch sites, including Wallops Flight Facility, Vandenberg Launch Site, and International Launch sites.

A key focus will be integrating operations across subsystems and upstream processes to enable seamless execution from testing through launch. Responsibilities include authoring operational procedures, developing automation, performing console operations, and driving cross-functional improvements that enhance operational efficiency, reliability, and mission success.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of company processes, guidelines, and training in test and launch operations
• Develop and execute integrated test and launch operations at Briggs Test Stands (TX), Vandenberg Space Force Base (CA), Wallops Flight Facility (VA), and International Launch sites
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to drive upgrades, efficiencies, and establish standardized processes across launch sites
• Lead troubleshooting efforts, resolve anomalies that arise during operations/testing, and lead root cause investigations
• Develop automation and operational software tools to support test and launch execution
• Author procedures for launch pad configuration, vehicle operations, and propellant/pressurant handling during countdown operations
• Develop and author operational requirements
• Provide team and program execution planning
• Proposal and trade study support
• Requires up to 25% travel to test and launch sites to support overall program needs

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, or related engineering discipline
• 7+ years of hands-on experience in test operations, launch operations, or similar high-consequence operational environments
• Experience developing systems engineering artifacts (requirements, test verification evidence, FMECAs) and utilizing systems engineering tools
• Experience developing automation sequences and procedures for hazardous, time-critical, or mission-critical systems
• Comfortable working in launch site environments with field testing, heavy equipment, and hazardous materials
• Able to prioritize and execute tasks in a high pressure fast-paced environment
• Willingness to support off-hour shifts during launch operations

Desired

• System-level understanding of launch vehicle and ground subsystems, including fluid systems, propulsion, avionics, structures, and software/controls
• Experience with distributed control systems or custom data acquisition and control architecture
• Experience with standards and regulations (ASME, NFPA, NEC, AFSPCMAN 91-710, NASA-STD-5005, GSFC-STD-8009, etc.)
• Prior experience at a federal launch range or rocket engine or vehicle test site
• Ability to convey complex technical information clearly and concisely to technical and non-technical audiences, including executive audiences
• Demonstrated project management experience
• Experience developing budgets and schedules, etc.
• Familiarity with Atlassian products (i.e., Confluence and Jira) and version control systems (i.e., SVN, Bitbucket, Git, etc.)

Additional information

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