Systems Engineer I – Launch Vehicle Avionics (FTS)

SUMMARY

A Firefly Avionics systems engineer will be responsible for defining requirements, architecture, and implementation of avionics systems on launch vehicles and spacecraft. In this role you would represent the avionics team during vehicle-level trades, interfacing with other teams including propulsion and structures teams to determine requirements and integration. Additionally, you would be responsible for developing/coordinating development schedules, developing system level test and operations plans, and supporting launch day activities. Previous launch vehicle experience is not required.

This position is ideal for recent graduates or early-career engineers who are passionate about space systems and eager to gain hands-on experience in avionics. You’ll contribute to real missions and work side-by-side with experienced engineers to bring Firefly’s launch and lunar programs to life.

Previous launch vehicle experience is not required — just a strong foundation in electrical or aerospace engineering principles and a desire to learn.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support the design and development of avionics systems for current and future launch vehicles, including Flight Termination Systems (FTS).

• Assist in writing and reviewing test procedures, installation procedures, and checkout documentation.

• Help coordinate and maintain systems-level requirements with the Avionics team and translate them into subsystem and component-level requirements.

• Support system design reviews, test planning, and verification activities.

• Participate in vehicle integration, testing, and launch operations.

• Collaborate with government and range partners on documentation and readiness efforts.

• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives by helping track system performance and identify upgrade opportunities.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a related field.

• Familiarity with avionics systems, electrical system design, or embedded systems.

• Familiarity with basic test and verification processes.

• Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.

• Eagerness to learn and contribute in a hands-on, fast-paced environment.

• Must meet ITAR requirements (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or eligible per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)).

Preferred:

• Familiarity with Flight Termination Systems (FTS) or Autonomous Flight Termination Systems (AFTS).

• Exposure to Range Commanders Council (RCC) 319 requirements.

• Familiarity with systems engineering concepts, including requirements flow-down and verification.

• Experience with project-based or academic aerospace work, such as student rocketry, CubeSats, or UAVs.

• Basic understanding of environmental testing (thermal, vibration, shock, or vacuum).

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.