Senior Spacecraft Engineer

Umbra is an American space technology company delivering advanced systems, from sensors to spacecraft, that empower customers worldwide with unmatched access to critical information from space. Our mission is simple and ambitious: redefine space—for people, systems, and missions in every domain. Umbra’s ecosystem operates through three business units: Remote Sensing (the data), Space Systems (the components), and Mission Solutions (the platforms). Together, our teams develop capabilities that deliver persistent access, resilient performance, and mission-ready solutions, advancing U.S. space leadership while keeping the world safe and informed. 

About the Team
Mission Solutions – The Platforms 
Mission Solutions builds on Umbra’s expertise in remote sensing and spacecraft operations to engineer platforms purpose-built for U.S. and allied defense and intelligence missions. Whether it’s a custom payload, a full-stack spacecraft, or the infrastructure behind an entire constellation, our team delivers secure, resilient systems tailored to exacting requirements and built on timelines that match the urgency of the mission.   

If you want to work on cutting-edge space technology that’s redefining what’s possible in space platforms, you belong here at Umbra. 

About the Job
Umbra is seeking a motivated Spacecraft Engineer to design and implement the next generation of space systems for our Mission Solutions programs. This role involves creating manufacturable, modular, and resilient space vehicles while introducing innovative solutions to meet the needs of domestic and international customers. You will work closely with Umbra’s Remote Sensing and Space Systems teams to deliver mission-critical products and services.

The ideal candidate is a systems thinker and solution-focused innovator who excels at solving complex technical challenges using sound engineering principles. Strong communication skills and the ability to lead in a multidisciplinary environment are essential.

Our aim is to hire this position to work in either our Santa Barbara/Goleta, CA office or Arlington, VA office. 

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and technical implementation of Umbra’s spacecraft architecture and subsystem definitions.
• Conduct mission and spacecraft trade studies to guide budget allocations, system baselines, and equipment selection. Oversee the implementation and delivery of spacecraft systems.
• Define concepts of operations and mission solutions for business development efforts. Assist in capture and proposal development.
• Manage interfaces between spacecraft, subsystems, and payloads for both internal and externally funded development programs.
• Ensure alignment between company strategy, mission requirements, and product architecture, contributing to Umbra’s broader technical portfolio across multiple domains.
• Present spacecraft solution architectures to internal stakeholders, including peers, leadership, and cross-functional partners, to secure technical buy-in and ensure architectural coherence.
• Provide spacecraft architecture expertise to cross-disciplinary teams, aiding in the design of high-performance, integrated systems.
• Contribute to business development and capture efforts by authoring and reviewing formal responses and proposals for new opportunities.
• Travel up to 15% may be required between Umbra facilities in California and Northern Virginia, as well as to partner and customer locations.
• Perform other professional duties as assigned.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or equivalent experience.
• 8+ years of relevant technical experience.
• Strong understanding of spacecraft and payload subsystems.
• Expertise in at least one spacecraft subsystem (e.g., Power, Comm, GN&C, Mechanical).
• Proven leadership ability to drive technical concepts from formulation to implementation.
• Experience with integration, testing, launch, and operations.
• Knowledge of flight software, firmware development, and interfaces.
• Familiarity with systems engineering processes and program lifecycle.
• Strong interpersonal skills to interact effectively with customers and Umbra staff.
• Good communication skills, ability to collaborate in a team, and willingness to learn new technologies.
• Current security clearance or willingness to obtain one.
• Comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced development environment.

Desired Qualifications

• Proficient in engineering tools such as STK, Matlab, and Python.
• Delivered spacecraft or subsystems to stakeholders.
• Exper