Job Description

Principal Spacecraft Systems Engineer

We are seeking an experienced Principal Spacecraft Systems Engineer to lead the design, development, and optimization of cutting-edge satellite systems and subsystems. This role covers all phases of the satellite lifecycle, from initial concept development through testing and deployment, ensuring that all systems meet stringent performance, reliability, and mission requirements.

📌 On-Site Role: This position requires full-time, on-site work. Remote or hybrid arrangements are not available.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead System Design: Spearhead the development and architecture of complex satellite systems, including payloads, bus components, and ground infrastructure, ensuring compliance with mission objectives.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Translate customer needs into defined goals, objectives, and high-level system requirements, leading to the development of a Concept of Operations (ConOps).
• Requirements Definition: Lead the creation and analysis of system requirements, including performance, interface, and operational specifications, ensuring alignment with mission and stakeholder needs.
• Integration & Testing: Oversee system integration across hardware and software components, leading validation efforts to ensure operational functionality and reliability.
• Technical Support: Provide expert guidance to engineering teams, troubleshooting and resolving complex system issues.
• System Budgets: Develop and manage system-level budgets (e.g., mass, power, delta-V, pointing accuracy, link budgets) throughout the project lifecycle.
• Documentation: Maintain detailed documentation of system architectures, test plans, and performance assessments, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
• Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Work closely with software engineers, hardware developers, and manufacturing teams to drive seamless system integration and deployment.

Qualifications

Required:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Experience: 10+ years of experience in spacecraft systems engineering, with hands-on involvement in satellite design and integration.
• Technical Expertise: Proficiency in satellite design software (e.g., MATLAB, STK) and deep knowledge of satellite subsystems, including communications, propulsion, and power systems.
• Systems Thinking: Strong analytical skills with a holistic approach to system design, capable of diagnosing and resolving complex challenges.
• Requirements Management: Experience defining technical requirements from minimal input and decomposing high-level objectives into subsystem specifications.
• Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across disciplines and present technical concepts clearly.
• Security Clearance: Must be eligible to obtain a Secret and/or TS/SCI clearance .

Preferred:

• Education: Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience: 15+ years in satellite systems engineering, with a focus on high-precision or mission-critical spacecraft.
• Advanced Expertise: Experience in advanced spacecraft system design, including payload development and satellite ground systems.
• Certifications: Industry-recognized certifications (e.g., CSEP, SEP).
• Industry Background: Aerospace or space technology experience, particularly in complex satellite missions.
• Specialized Knowledge: Experience working with Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO) missions and advanced payloads such as RF, infrared (IR), and hyperspectral systems.
• Innovation: Proven ability to drive technological advancements and solve complex engineering challenges.
• Startup Experience: Previous experience working in a fast-paced startup environment.

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