Okay, I've searched for Senior Systems Engineer roles in Cedar Park, TX requiring 10+ years of experience, expertise in Linux systems administration, virtualization, automation skills, full-time schedule, and U.S. citizenship. I have found 37 positions for you.

Sure. Here's the analysis:

Job Analysis:

The Senior Systems Engineer role at Firefly Aerospace is fundamentally designed to ensure the robustness, reliability, and scalability of infrastructure systems that support critical space operations—from pre-launch through on-orbit mission phases. The position demands a deep technical mastery of Linux server environments, virtualization platforms (such as VMware and ProxMox), and container orchestration (notably Kubernetes) to maintain 24/7 uptime in hybrid on-premises and cloud contexts. The candidate must act as a linchpin between IT infrastructure and aerospace mission needs, requiring not only strong technical acumen but also the ability to collaborate closely with engineers and mission planners, making the job as much about orchestration and communication as about technology. Key challenges include maintaining mission control centers under high-stakes conditions, automating complex deployments through infrastructure-as-code, and supporting dynamic, multi-disciplinary teams with operational priorities that can shift rapidly. Success hinges on proactive infrastructure governance, rigorous documentation, and delivering seamless technical support during critical mission windows. This is a high-autonomy role requiring agility in problem-solving, ability to handle complex system failures, and readiness for after-hours support to uphold operational continuity. Mastery over scripting, automation, and enterprise storage further underscores the role’s demand for precision, efficiency, and forward-thinking system design.

Company Analysis:

Firefly Aerospace operates in the competitive and rapidly evolving commercial space industry, positioned as a responsive, cost-efficient provider of small- to medium-lift launch and lunar vehicles. It leverages innovation in materials science and propulsion technologies to disrupt traditional space access paradigms by emphasizing scalability and reliability at lower costs. This market positioning means the company marries a startup-like agility with highly technical, mission-critical rigor. Its culture likely values innovation, rapid iteration, multidisciplinary collaboration, and mission-focus—qualities essential for maintaining competitive advantages in space tech. For a Senior Systems Engineer, this environment translates into working within fast-paced, technically sophisticated teams that balance cutting-edge aerospace challenges with the operational discipline required for 24/7 mission readiness. The role reportedly fits within IT and mission operations, indicating substantial cross-functional collaboration and visibility with leadership tasked with executing space missions. Hiring here is strategic—supporting Firefly’s ambitious goals to deliver end-to-end space services reliably and responsively—meaning this position is critical in scaling infrastructure underpinning launch and mission success. The role also demands cultural adaptability to regulated environments given export controls and the sensitive nature of aerospace technology. Ultimately, the candidate must balance technical depth with a mission-oriented mindset to thrive in a company where innovation and operational excellence must coexist seamlessly.

Absolutely. Here are some mock interview questions that could come up:

• Behavioral: Tell me about a time when you had to troubleshoot and resolve a critical system outage during an important operational window. What steps did you take, and what was the outcome?
• Behavioral: Describe an experience where you worked cross-functionally with engineering teams to tailor infrastructure solutions to meet specific project needs. How did you ensure alignment and success?
• Behavioral: Give an example of how you managed multiple high-priority tasks or projects in a fast-paced and changing environment. How did you prioritize and communicate?
• Behavioral: Share an instance where you improved or created documentation or standard operating procedures that significantly enhanced team performance or system reliability.
• Technical: How would you approach designing a hybrid-cloud Kubernetes cluster for hosting containerized aerospace mission applications with strict uptime and security requirements?
• Technical: What strategies and tools have you used to automate infrastructure deployment and configuration management in a high-availability environment?
• Technical: Walk me through your experience with enterprise storage solutions like SAN, NAS, or object storage. How do you ensure performance and scalability?
• Technical: How do you monitor and troubleshoot Linux server infrastructures and networked storage systems to maintain 24/7 uptime? What tools and processes do you rely on?
• Situational: Imagine a critical spacecraft telemetry system loses connectivity during a launch sequence due to infrastructure failure. How would you respond in real-time, and what longer-term measures would you implement to prevent recurrence?
• Situational: You notice inconsistencies in deployment processes across multiple teams that could delay mission timelines. How would you address this to improve automation and standardization?
• Situational: An urgent mission operation requires after-hours support but you are juggling several ongoing projects. How do you manage your workload and ensure mission success without burnout?
• Company Fit: What excites you most about working at Firefly Aerospace and contributing to space mission infrastructure?
• Company Fit: How do your personal values and professional experiences align with Firefly’s mission to deliver affordable, reliable, and responsive space access?
• Company Fit: Firefly Aerospace emphasizes quick iteration and innovative technologies. How do you stay current with emerging infrastructure tools and practices to drive continuous improvement?
• Questions for Interviewer: How does the Senior Systems Engineer role integrate with aerospace engineering and mission operations teams on a daily basis?
• Questions for Interviewer: What are the biggest infrastructure challenges Firefly currently faces during spacecraft launch and on-orbit operations?
• Questions for Interviewer: Can you describe the professional growth opportunities available for this role as Firefly expands its launch and lunar vehicle programs?