Director, Propulsion Engineering

Responsibilities

• Set and own the technical vision, strategy, and execution of all propulsion and fluid systems programs across launch vehicles and spacecraft
• Lead, develop, and grow a multidisciplinary propulsion organization of ~100 engineers, fostering technical excellence, accountability, and professional growth
• Maintain ownership of propulsion hardware and systems across the full lifecycle, from requirements definition and architecture trades through qualification, flight, and operations
• Serve as a senior technical authority for propulsion and fluid systems, supporting major design reviews, test readiness reviews, anomaly resolution, and flight readiness activities
• Collaborate closely with discipline chief engineers, vehicle chief engineers, and cross-functional teams including structures, avionics, software, manufacturing, integration, quality, and test
• Drive propulsion system performance, reliability, cost, and manufacturability through disciplined design practices and data-driven decision making
• Ensure robust risk identification, mitigation, and closure through analysis, testing, and operational feedback
• Oversee development, qualification, and acceptance testing of propulsion components, subsystems, and engines, with an emphasis on learning-oriented testing
• Contribute directly to new engine and propulsion technology development, providing technical insight and guidance where needed
• Establish and uphold engineering standards, best practices, and compliance with applicable industry and government requirements

Qualifications

• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field
• 8+ years of experience in the design, development, and test of aerospace propulsion and/or fluid systems
• 5+ years of experience leading engineering teams, with demonstrated success delivering complex hardware programs
• Strong technical foundation in propulsion system design, fluid dynamics, combustion, turbomachinery, thermodynamics, and thermal systems
• Hands-on experience driving performance, reliability, or design-for-manufacturability initiatives
• Deep understanding of cryogenic and storable propellant systems
• Working 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 components
• Proven ability to rapidly develop solutions with partially defined or evolving requirements
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to represent propulsion programs to internal and external stakeholders

Desired Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent field
• Extensive experience developing and operating liquid rocket engines, launch vehicles, or spacecraft
• In-depth knowledge of cryogenic, high-pressure, or high-temperature system operations
• Experience 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 execution
• Demonstrated experience with full hardware lifecycle ownership, from blank-sheet design through full operation
• Demonstrated passion for advancing propulsion technology and integrating emerging capabilities into an executable roadmap

Benefits

Firefly offers outstanding benefits for our employees, including:

• Generous health, dental and vision plans with low plan deductibles
• Parenthood leave
• Educational reimbursement
• Short term disability
• Flexible PTO options

Disclaimer

Firefly offers outstanding benefits for our employees, including:

• Generous health, dental and vision plans with low plan deductibles
• Parenthood leave
• Educational reimbursement
• Short term disability
• Flexible PTO options