Senior Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Department: Vehicle Design / Analysis / Integration

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Irvine, California

Compensation: $140,000 - $180,000 / year

Description

Introduction -
The Senior Spacecraft Systems Engineer will be responsible for designing, developing, and optimizing satellite systems and subsystems. This role involves working on all phases of satellite lifecycle, from concept and design through testing and deployment, ensuring that systems meet performance, reliability, and mission requirements. 

Note: This is an on-site position. We do not offer remote or hybrid work arrangements. 

Key Responsibilities

• System Design: Develop and design satellite systems, including payloads, bus systems, and ground systems. Ensure designs meet mission requirements and performance specifications. 
• Integration and Testing: Oversee the integration of satellite systems, including hardware and software components. Lead testing and validation efforts to ensure system functionality and reliability. 
• Requirements Analysis: Analyze and define system requirements, including performance, interface, and operational requirements. Ensure alignment with mission objectives and stakeholder needs. 
• Technical Support: Provide technical support and guidance to engineering teams, including troubleshooting and resolving complex system issues. 
• Documentation: Prepare and maintain detailed documentation of system designs, test procedures, and performance reports. Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations. 
• Collaboration & Communication: Work with cross-functional teams, including systems engineering, software engineering, and manufacturing, to ensure successful system integration and deployment. 

Qualifications

Required:

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related field. 
• Experience: 6+ years of experience in spacecraft systems engineering or a related field, with hands-on experience in satellite design and integration. 
• Technical Skills: Proficiency with satellite systems design tools and software (e.g., MATLAB, STK). Strong understanding of satellite subsystems, including communications, propulsion, and power systems. 
• System Minded Skills: Analytical skills with a focus on the overall system; with the ability to troubleshoot complex systems and provide effective solutions. 
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams and present technical information clearly. 
• Requirements: Prior experience with developing requirements from minimal stakeholder expectations or decomposing high-level requirements to subsystem levels.  
• System Budgets: Ability to create system level budgets (mass, power, dV, pointing, link, etc.) and track the budget throughout the project lifecycle.  
• Must be able to obtain a Secret and/or a TS/SCI clearance. 

Preferred:

• Education: Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related field. 
• Experience: 10+ years of experience in satellite systems engineering, with experience in high-precision or mission-critical satellite systems. 
• Advanced Skills: Expertise in advanced spacecraft systems design and integration, including experience with payload design and satellite ground systems. 
• Certifications: Relevant certifications in systems engineering or satellite technology (e.g., Systems Engineering Professional (SEP), Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP)). 
• Industry Experience: Experience in aerospace or space technology sectors, particularly with complex satellite systems and missions. 
• Innovation: Proven track record of innovation and problem-solving in satellite systems engineering. 
• Previous experience in a startup work environment 

ITAR Requirements: 

• This position may include access to technology and/or software source code that is subject to U.S. export controls. To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158,  or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. 

Benefits

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement Plans: Access to a 401(k) plan.