Test Engineer, IV Propulsion

Firefly Aerospace•Briggs, TX

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Firefly Aerospace is seeking an experienced Propulsion Test Engineer to join its test operations team at the manufacturing and test facility in Briggs, Texas. The role focuses on liquid propulsion testing, leading complex test campaigns, and improving operational excellence in hypergolic test programs. The Test Engineer will own test operations for the Spectre propulsion engine and other liquid propulsion systems supporting the Blue Ghost lunar lander program. Responsibilities include planning and conducting hotfire tests, leading anomaly resolution, and mentoring junior test personnel. The role works directly with propulsion systems that are built and tested on site for future lunar missions.

Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
At least 5 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 involving an engine, thruster, or integrated vehicle.
Strong understanding of liquid propulsion systems, including propellant feed, pressurization, and 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 and instrumentation for pressure, temperature, flow, and thrust, including 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.
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 U.S. Department of State authorizations, to conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations including ITAR.

Responsibilities

Lead the integration, instrumentation, and execution of hotfire tests for the Spectre propulsion engine and related liquid propulsion systems.
Develop 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.
Set up, check out, and operate ground support equipment, including propellant transfer, pressurization, and safety systems.
Execute propellant loading, engine conditioning, ignition sequences, and safing operations according to approved procedures.
Analyze test data in real time and after tests to verify performance, identify anomalies, and validate test objectives using tools such as Python, LabView, or similar.
Lead anomaly investigations and root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions.
Collaborate with propulsion design engineers, systems engineers, and technicians to resolve technical issues and improve 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 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 with stakeholders on 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.