Job Details

About the RoleThe Propulsion Director provides technical and organizational leadership for the design, development, test, qualification, and operation of propulsion systems across Firefly's launch vehicles and spacecraft. This role is accountable for multiple engine and fluid system programs spanning early architecture trades through flight operations.As a vertically integrated company with co‑located design, fabrication, and test facilities, Firefly expects the Propulsion Director to be deeply engaged in hardware development while setting a clear technical vision and execution strategy. The successful candidate balances hands‑on technical depth with people leadership, thrives in a fast‑paced development environment, and drives a culture of rigorous testing, ownership, and continuous improvement.The scope of the propulsion engineering department spans launch vehicle engines, spacecraft propulsion, vehicle fluid systems, valve design, and propulsion analysis teams.ResponsibilitiesSet and own the technical vision, strategy, and execution of all propulsion and fluid systems programs across launch vehicles and spacecraftLead, develop, and grow a multidisciplinary propulsion organization of ~100 engineers, fostering technical excellence, accountability, and professional growthMaintain ownership of propulsion hardware and systems across the full lifecycle, from requirements definition and architecture trades through qualification, flight, and operationsServe as a senior technical authority for propulsion and fluid systems, supporting major design reviews, test readiness reviews, anomaly resolution, and flight readiness activitiesCollaborate closely with discipline chief engineers, vehicle chief engineers, and cross‑functional teams including structures, avionics, software, manufacturing, integration, quality, and testDrive propulsion system performance, reliability, cost, and manufacturability through disciplined design practices and data‑driven decision makingEnsure robust risk identification, mitigation, and closure through analysis, testing, and operational feedbackOversee development, qualification, and acceptance testing of propulsion components, subsystems, and engines, with an emphasis on learning‑oriented testingContribute directly to new engine and propulsion technology development, providing technical insight and guidance where neededEstablish and uphold engineering standards, best practices, and compliance with applicable industry and government requirementsQualificationsRequiredB.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field8+ years of experience in the design, development, and test of aerospace propulsion and/or fluid systems5+ years of experience leading engineering teams, with demonstrated success delivering complex hardware programsStrong technical foundation in propulsion system design, fluid dynamics, combustion, turbomachinery, thermodynamics, and thermal systems as well as a demonstrated ability to apply these first principles to arrive at simple, robust solutionsDemonstrated experience owning hardware from early concept through testing, qualification, and operationHands‑on experience driving performance, reliability, or design‑for‑manufacturability initiativesDeep understanding of cryogenic and storable propellant systemsWorking knowledge of relevant aerospace standards and requirements (e.g., SMC‑S‑016, SMC‑S‑025)Working knowledge of manufacturing, fabrication, integration, and quality control relevant to fluid components (such as machining, inspection, assembly, testing, etc.)Knowledge of fluid components such as valves, regulators, pressure transducers, tubing, pressurized hardware, seals, and instrumentation and experience performing fluid systems sizing analysis with such componentsProven ability to rapidly develop solutions with partially defined or evolving requirementsExcellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to represent propulsion programs to internal and external stakeholdersDesired QualificationsAdvanced degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent fieldExtensive experience developing and operating liquid rocket engines, launch vehicles, or spacecraftIn‑depth knowledge of cryogenic, high‑pressure, or high‑temperature system operationsExperience with fluid system subcomponent or pressurized component development, design, or testing (such as valves, regulators, piping systems, pumps, etc.)Familiarity with multiple engine cycle architectures (e.g., gas generator, staged combustion, full‑flow staged combustion)Proven ability to build and sustain a high‑performing engineering culture centered on ownership, learning, and executionDemonstrated experience with full hardware lifecycle ownership, from blank‑sheet design through full operationDemonstrated passion for advancing propulsion technology and integrating emerging capabilities into an executable roadmapDisclaimerFirefly 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. Firefly Aerospace, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Firefly is governed based on merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.#J-18808-Ljbffr