SUMMARY We are seeking an
experienced Propulsion Test Engineer to join our test operations team at our manufacturing and test facility in Briggs, TX. This role is for a hands-on test professional with proven expertise in liquid propulsion testing who can lead complex test campaigns and drive operational excellence in our hypergolic test programs.
As a Test Engineer, you will take ownership of test operations for the Spectre propulsion engine and other liquid propulsion systems supporting the Blue Ghost lunar lander program. You will leverage your experience with liquid rocket propulsion to plan and execute critical hotfire testing, lead anomaly resolution efforts, and mentor junior test personnel. Your expertise will directly impact mission success as we prepare our systems for lunar missions.
Testing Spectre will have a direct impact on the success of future lunar missions and will ultimately drive changes to the landscape of our space industry. Specter is an engine built on site, tested on site, and operated by you to be ready to fly to the lunar surface and beyond.
RESPONSIBILITIES Test Operations & Execution - Lead the integration, instrumentation, and execution of hotfire tests for the Spectre propulsion engine and related liquid propulsion systems
- Develop comprehensive 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
- Perform and oversee hands-on setup, checkout, and operation of ground support equipment including propellant transfer systems, pressurization systems, and safety systems
- Execute propellant loading, engine conditioning, ignition sequences, and safing operations in accordance with approved procedures
Technical Leadership & Analysis - Analyze test data in real-time and post-test to verify system performance, identify anomalies, and validate test objectives using tools such as Python, LabView, or similar
- Lead anomaly investigations, root cause analysis, and implementation of corrective actions
- Collaborate with propulsion design engineers, systems engineers, and technicians to resolve technical issues and optimize 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
Safety & Documentation - Ensure all 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
Program Support - Work directly with stakeholders of 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
QUALIFICATIONS Required - BS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline
- Minimum 5 plus 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 (engine, thruster, or integrated vehicle)
- Strong understanding of liquid propulsion systems including propellant feed systems, pressurization systems, 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, instrumentation (pressure, temperature, flow, thrust), and 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
Firefly offers outstanding benefits for our employees, including generous health, dental and vision plans with low plan deductibles, parental leave, 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.
