Launch Vehicle Ground Software Engineer

Launch Vehicle Ground Software Engineer

As a Launch Vehicle Ground Software Engineer at Firefly Aerospace, you will develop the software that powers our launch operations, from engine tests to liftoff. This role focuses on building and maintaining real-time ground control systems used at test stands and launch pads, ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient vehicle operations.

You will work closely with test, avionics, and propulsion teams to integrate hardware, sensors, and control loops into ground systems. With expertise in LabVIEW, Python, and real-time data acquisition, you will create operator interfaces, automation scripts, and data pipelines that directly support launch vehicle readiness and execution. Your work will be at the heart of enabling Firefly to launch quickly, safely, and repeatedly.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement ground control and monitoring software for launch vehicles and test stands.
• Develop LabVIEW applications for real-time control, data acquisition, and operator interfaces.
• Write Python applications and scripts for system integration, automation, and data analysis.
• Integrate software with hardware interfaces including sensors, actuators, and control systems.
• Build real-time telemetry and control pipelines to support countdown and launch operations.
• Collaborate with propulsion, avionics, and test teams to meet operational requirements.
• Support test stand operations, engine firings, and full-scale vehicle rehearsals.
• Implement robust fault detection, safety interlocks, and operator alerts in ground software.
• Maintain and improve software for scalability, reliability, and mission-critical performance.
• Participate in on-console operations during integrated vehicle tests and launches.

Qualifications

Required:

• BS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field.
• 3+ years of experience in ground systems, controls, or data acquisition software.
• Proficiency with LabVIEW for instrumentation, control, and operator interfaces.
• Strong Python development skills for integration, automation, and analysis.
• Experience working with real-time control systems and hardware integration.
• Knowledge of networking, communication protocols, and data acquisition hardware.
• Ability to work in high-reliability, safety-critical operational environments.

Desired:

• MS in Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field.
• Experience with launch vehicle ground systems or aerospace test environments.
• Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA, or other industrial control systems.
• Background in propulsion or fluid systems instrumentation and controls.
• Experience with test stand operations, engine testing, or flight hardware checkout.
• Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines, software containerization, and orchestration/deployment (e.g., Docker, Kubernetes, or virtualized environments).
• Familiarity with time-series database technologies (e.g., InfluxDB) for high-volume telemetry or test data.
• Active security clearance or eligibility to obtain one.