Early Career Systems Engineer

About the role

We are seeking an Early Career Systems Engineer to support the architecture, integration, analysis, and verification of airborne and spaceborne remote-sensing systems. This role is ideal for an engineer early in their career who wants broad exposure to real hardware that flies, while developing strong systems engineering fundamentals.

Key Responsibilities

• Systems Engineering Support:
  • Support system architecture development for airborne and spaceborne sensing systems.
  • Aid in requirements definition, allocation, and traceability across subsystems.
  • Help develop and maintain Interface Control Documents (ICDs).
  • Support system-level trade studies and performance analyses (power, mass, data, timing, pointing).
• Integration, Test & Verification Support:
  • Support system integration planning and execution.
  • Aid in developing test plans, procedures, and verification matrices.
  • Participate in laboratory integration, functional testing, and field demonstrations.
  • Support test data review, anomaly tracking, and documentation.
• Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration:
  • Work with optics, mechanical, electronics, avionics, and software teams to resolve interface issues.
  • Support configuration management, documentation, and design reviews.
  • Contribute to internal technical reports and proposal content (NASA, DoD, SBIR).

What Success Looks Like

• A clear understanding of system architecture and interfaces.
• Well-maintained requirements and documentation.
• Smoother subsystem integration with minimal surprises.
• Growing technical ownership and confidence across multiple programs.

Qualifications

• Required:
• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related field.
• 0–3 years of experience (internships, research, or early professional experience).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to communicate clearly in writing and verbally.
• Willingness to work hands-on with hardware and testing.
• PREFERRED:
• Exposure to systems engineering concepts (requirements, interfaces, verification).
• Experience with laboratory testing, prototyping, or integration.
• Familiarity with MATLAB, Python, or similar analysis tools.
• Interest in remote sensing, aerospace systems, or experimental hardware.
• Experience in a fast-paced or startup-like environment.

Location

This full-time role is based in El Segundo, CA, with onsite presence required (temporary remote flexibility may be considered). Some travel may be required.

ITAR Requirements

To comply with U.S. export regulations, applicants must be one of the following: A U.S. citizen or national, A lawful permanent resident (green card holder), Eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Employee Offerings & Benefits

• Compensation: Competitive total package based on experience.
• Equity: Early-stage equity package so you share directly in Matter’s growth and success.
• Health & Wellness: 100% employer-paid health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Growth: Opportunities to expand into leadership, strategic accounts, or cross-functional roles as we scale.