Staff Research Scientist - Propellants at Firehawk Aerospace Inc – Chico, Texas

Firehawk Aerospace is a propulsion-focused defense company located in Addison, TX. Our innovative approach empowers us to design and manufacture cutting-edge solid rocket motors. We aim to push the boundaries of propulsion technology to serve both commercial and defense sectors.

This position will be full-time, onsite, at our Chico, TX facilities.

Firehawk Aerospace is seeking a Staff R&D Scientist to support the Research and Development department. The position will report directly to the Research and Development Manager and will support all areas of the Organization (Raw Materials Selection, Materials Chemistry, Subscale Energetics Manufacturing, Energetics Testing, and Process Analysis and Development).

The ideal candidate should be an effective communicator who works well in teams and with limited supervision, should possess broad knowledge and experience with polymers, composites, polymer/composite manufacturing techniques, and/or energetics, solid propellants, and related materials and products. The ideal candidate should be able to grow into a technical lead for at least one related subdiscipline:
• Polymer materials science and processing
• Highly filled composites processing and manufacturing
• Energetic material manufacturing
• Physical testing and characterization of propellant and subsystem phenomena (e.g. aging and service life evaluation, safety testing, process analysis)

Responsibilities:
• Development of polymer processes and manufacturing methods
• Evaluation of appropriate equipment for production scale-up from lab to factory
• Working with suppliers to evaluate new materials, processes, and equipment
• Support development and production programs through the application of knowledge and expertise to improve performance, quality and/or manufacturing throughput.
• Analyze existing or planned processes for optimization, changes, and maintenance.
• Prepare, review, and edit technical and safety documentation such as process specifications, standard operating procedures, work instructions, management of change, pre startup safety reviews, and the like
• Support or lead significant material related failure or anomaly investigations.

Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Material Science, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related field
• 3-5 years of relevant experience within an R&D or laboratory setting
• Familiar with a variety of materials and process engineering disciplines including polymers, composites, adhesives, liners, failure analysis, and manufacturing operations.
• Familiarity with Statistical Analysis, Design of Experiments, Statistical Process Control, and Data Science
• Experience writing and reviewing processing and safety documentation
• High ethical standards of work and personal conduct.
• Willingness to work outside of standard work hours or overtime when needed to resolve issues.
• Strong verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills necessary to effectively collaborate in a team environment.
Skilled at building relationships and effective communication with all levels of the organization and with internal and external customers.
Strong organizational and planning skills, meticulous attention to detail, highly motivated, and the ability to manage and prioritize multiple tasks with limited oversight.
• Able to obtain a Secret Clearance which requires U.S. Citizenship as a prerequisite.

Preferred Qualifications
• Masters or PhD in Chemistry or Materials Science
• 5 years of relevant experience in addition to an advanced degree
• Strong understanding of polymers and thermoplastics, including physical characterization and processing capabilities
• Experienced in the development, manufacture and qualification of solid propellants.
• Experienced in the testing and evaluation of energetic materials (safety testing, mechanical and ballistic testing)

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.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements:
Employees in these positions must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and to use standard office equipment, including a computer; stamina to sit and to maintain attention to detail despite interruptions; may occasionally lift/carry/push/pull up to 25 pounds; may require minimal walking, standing for extended amounts of time, climbing, crouching, and/or bending; and vision to read printed materials and a computer screen, and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. May require the ability to travel by air or auto. May require the use of personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coat. These positions may be expected to work varying shifts and hours to ensure successful operation of activities in the organization.

Benefits at Firehawk Aerospace
At Firehawk Aerospace, we are committed to supporting the well-being of our employees and their families. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to provide peace of mind and help you thrive both personally and professionally.
Health Coverage: We offer 100% employer-paid medical premiums for employees and up to 75% coverage for dependents under select plans, with additional options for PPO and HDHP plans. Coverage begins the first of the month following your hire date.
Dental and Vision Plans: Affordable dental and vision plans with extensive coverage options, including preventive care, orthodontics, and allowances for contacts and frames.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Access to free, confidential services, including counseling, legal consultations, wellness coaching, and virtual concierge services to support your work-life balance.
Flexible Work Schedule: Enjoy a 9/80 schedule option, allowing for greater flexibility and work-life balance.
On-Site Perks: Complimentary snacks and refreshments to keep you energized throughout the day.
Professional Growth: Mentorship opportunities with industry-leading engineers and engagement in cutting-edge projects at the forefront of aerospace innovation.

Security Clearance:
May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance at the appropriate level. Requires U.S. Citizenship. Must also be able to satisfy federal government requirements for access to government information, and having dual citizenship may preclude you from being able to meet this requirement.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
Firehawk Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Firehawk Aerospace is governed on the basis of 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.