Lead Test & Launch Operations Engineer – Launch Pad (Aerospace)

Location: Wallops Island, Virginia, United States. Based at hirify.global’s Launch Complex 3 and supporting launch pad operations. U.S. office roles are subject to ITAR work authorization requirements.

Salary: $110,000–$145,000 USD base pay per year, plus potential stock or cash incentives.

Company

hirify.global is an end-to-end space company developing rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems, including the Neutron launch vehicle and HASTE hypersonic test program.

What you will do

• Lead engineers responsible for launch pad ground systems, fluid systems, and infrastructure supporting Electron and Neutron operations.
• Operate as the launch pad systems console operator in Mission Control during test campaigns, rehearsals, and launches.
• Develop CONOPS, test plans, operational procedures, checklists, and HMIs for ground system monitoring and control.
• Lead operational readiness reviews, training simulations, mission rehearsals, and operator qualification programs.
• Perform real-time troubleshooting and post-test or post-launch data analysis to resolve anomalies and identify improvements.
• Lead root-cause analysis, corrective actions, and the development of Neutron ground systems testing campaigns.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, electrical, chemical engineering, or another technical field.
• 5–8+ years of engineering experience in ground systems, industrial controls, fluid systems, or launch operations.
• Proficiency with ground support equipment, industrial control systems, PLCs, automated sequencing, and launch pad systems.
• Experience with cryogenic systems, pressurization, propellant handling, and launch vehicle tanking operations.
• Experience designing, testing, or operating high-reliability ground systems and developing operational procedures and test plans.
• Demonstrated leadership in change management, conflict resolution, escalation, and team management, plus knowledge of hazardous operations and safety protocols.

Nice to have

• Mission Control, aviation, aircrew, flight test, or active launch-site ground operations experience.
• Experience leading ground systems testing programs or static test campaigns.
• Experience with fluid systems, high-pressure gas systems, HMI development, and real-time operational data analysis.

Culture & Benefits

• Fast-paced environment focused on reliable launch operations and rapid innovation.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan options, paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave.
• Paid parental leave, employee stock purchase opportunities, and other discounts and perks.
• Work involves periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer use, and occasional exposure to moderate noise, dust, and fumes.