Vehicle Integration Engineering Intern

Job Description

About Firefly Aerospace

Firefly Aerospace is a pioneering, end-to-end responsive space transportation company, driven by a mission to revolutionize global access to space. We empower our world to launch, land, and operate in space – anywhere, anytime, providing unparalleled flexibility and reliability. Our comprehensive suite of advanced space vehicles, including innovative launch vehicles (Alpha, MLV), advanced lunar landers, and versatile orbital vehicles, delivers full mission services to both government and commercial customers. From crucial missions in Low Earth Orbit to ambitious expeditions to the surface of the Moon and beyond, Firefly Aerospace is at the forefront of space exploration. Headquartered in north Austin, Texas, we are actively seeking passionate, hardworking innovators who are eager to contribute to our successful trajectory and shape the future of space travel.

Summary

As a Vehicle Integration Engineering Intern at Firefly Aerospace, you will play a critical, hands-on role in the assembly and verification of our cutting-edge Alpha and A330/MLV launch vehicles. Working closely with our experienced Engineers and Technicians, you will be deeply embedded in the entire integration lifecycle – from the meticulous assembly of individual piece parts to executing complex, full system-level avionics and pressure checkouts. This position demands more than just following instructions; it requires a deeply intuitive understanding of the underlying design intentions and the ability to translate those intentions into precise assembly and rigorous test operations. We are looking for proactive problem-solvers: simply identifying an issue in designs or assembly methods is not enough; a successful intern will be driven to propose and implement effective solutions. This dynamic and impactful role is based at our facility north of Cedar Park, in Briggs, TX.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to Assembly & Validation Protocols: Collaborate directly with the engineering team to develop, document, and meticulously execute detailed vehicle assembly procedures. This includes critical vehicle propulsion checkouts, encompassing rigorous leak checks and pressurized operations, as well as comprehensive electrical system functional validation processes to ensure all components meet stringent performance standards.
• Innovate Tooling Solutions: Engage with design and tooling engineers to conceptualize, develop, and/or design specialized tooling essential for efficient vehicle assembly, comprehensive system checkouts, and safe pressurization operations, enhancing both speed and precision.
• Drive Problem Resolution & Process Improvement: Actively partner with engineering staff and skilled technicians to swiftly identify and resolve complex technical challenges that arise during integration. Participate in and help facilitate after-action reviews (hot-washes) for each operation, meticulously analyzing outcomes to drive continuous process improvement and operational excellence.
• Manage Non-Conformances & Quality Improvement: Work in close coordination with designers, analysts, and responsible engineers to identify, disposition, and formally close issues and non-conformances across mechanical, electrical, and structural systems. Take initiative to perform thorough root cause analysis and proactively drive further corrective actions to significantly enhance overall build quality and reliability.
• Support Supply Chain & Procurement: Assist in ensuring the Bill of Materials (BOM) for designed assemblies is accurately fulfilled and strategically planned. This involves supporting procurement efforts and conducting feasibility evaluations to guarantee the timely availability of necessary components.
• Influence Design for Production: Provide crucial support to the engineering team in defining and refining the manufacturability, producibility, and ease of assembly of designs, advocating for the strategic use of industry-standard parts and products to optimize production efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Qualifications

Required:

• Academic Enrollment: Must be currently enrolled in either a Bachelor of Science (BS) or Master of Science (MS) program (or be a recent graduate within the last 12 months) from an accredited four-year university or college.
• Hands-On & Adaptive Mindset: Demonstrate a strong willingness and enthusiasm to immerse yourself in a dynamic, hands-on, and constantly evolving environment. This role requires adaptability, a proactive approach to learning, and comfort with rapid change and iteration inherent in aerospace development.
• Detail-Oriented & Focused: Possess exceptional attention to detail, capable of meticulously reviewing designs, procedures, and physical assemblies. Ability to effectively manage multiple competing priorities while consistently maintaining unwavering focus on achieving critical common goals and project milestones.

Desired:

Candidates will preferably demonstrate a strong focus and relevant experience in the following areas:

• Engineering Focus: Academic background or significant coursework emphasis in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering, providing a foundational understanding of relevant principles.
• Manufacturing Acumen: A strong understanding of modern Manufacturing principles, including DFM (Design for Manufacturability), assembly line optimization, and quality control processes.
• 3D Modeling Proficiency: Demonstrated proficiency in using 3D modeling software, with NX being highly preferred. Experience with other industry-standard platforms such as Catia, SolidWorks, or Inventor is also valuable.
• Test & Validation Experience: Prior experience in writing comprehensive test plans and procedures, including the critical ability to define clear pass/fail criteria for complex systems.
• Fluid Systems Knowledge: Practical experience or strong theoretical understanding related to pressurized systems and the safe operation of high-pressure fluid systems.
• Technical Documentation Interpretation: Proven ability to accurately read and interpret engineering drawings (GD&T, assembly drawings) and electrical schematics, translating technical information into practical application.

ITAR Requirements: 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.

Equal Opportunity Employer: 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.