Spacecraft Systems Engineer

About the role

We are seeking a highly technical and systems-minded Spacecraft Systems Engineer to serve as the technical owner across spacecraft development, from early mission architecture through flight delivery.

Responsibilities

• Own spacecraft-level technical execution across concept development, design, integration, test, and flight readiness
• Lead end-to-end system architecture, requirements development, interface management, and configuration across all spacecraft subsystems
• Conduct and lead system-level trade studies involving propulsion, power, mass properties, mission design, payload integration, and overall vehicle performance
• Serve as the primary technical interface with customers, government stakeholders, mission partners, and internal program leadership
• Lead major engineering reviews including System Requirements Review (SRR), Preliminary Design Review (PDR), Critical Design Review (CDR), Test Readiness Review (TRR), and Flight Readiness Review (FRR)
• Develop and execute spacecraft verification and validation strategies for both flight hardware and software
• Support spacecraft assembly, integration, environmental testing, launch campaign activities, and mission readiness
• Collaborate across propulsion, avionics, structures, software, GNC, manufacturing, and mission operations teams to ensure successful system integration
• Mentor engineers while promoting technical rigor, rapid execution, and engineering best practices
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that strengthen systems engineering processes, design methodologies, and technical standards

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field (Master's degree preferred)
• 3–12 years of spacecraft systems engineering experience supporting flight or flight-like hardware
• Demonstrated experience owning spacecraft-level requirements, architecture development, subsystem integration, and technical execution
• Experience leading technical development through at least one major spacecraft design milestone (PDR or later)
• Strong understanding of spacecraft subsystems including propulsion, structures, avionics, GNC, power, thermal, and software interfaces
• Experience developing system requirements, interface control documentation, verification plans, and technical baselines
• Able to serve as a technical authority within a fast-paced spacecraft development environment
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, communication, and cross-functional leadership skills
• Able to communicate effectively with engineers, executive leadership, customers, and government stakeholders

Qualifications

• Experience supporting U.S. Space Force, Space Systems Command (SSC), NASA, NRO, SDA, AFRL, or other national security space programs
• Deep technical background in spacecraft propulsion systems and high-delta-V mission design
• Hands-on experience supporting spacecraft integration, environmental testing, launch campaigns, and flight operations
• Familiarity with mission assurance, technical risk management, and systems engineering best practices
• Experience using requirements and configuration management tools such as Jama, DOORS, JIRA, and Confluence
• Working knowledge of CAD tools such as Creo or SolidWorks and multidisciplinary engineering principles across structural, thermal, and fluid systems
• Programming or mission analysis experience using Python, MATLAB, or similar engineering tools

Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities
• Experience with spacecraft systems and subsystems
• Knowledge of spacecraft propulsion systems and mission design

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Equity
• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharing

Pay

$110,000 to $220,000

Schedule

Full-time