IT Systems Engineer

Orchard LLC; Houston (TX); Remote; USD 143,000 - 238,000; Full time

Job summary

Orchard LLC seeks a Sr. IT Systems Engineer to support a space infrastructure program. You will lead design and integration of telemetry, test racks, and console software, with responsibilities spanning from development to 24/7 campaign support.

This role offers remote work within the United States or basing in Palo Alto, Houston, or San Jose, CA, with strong emphasis on Linux/Windows administration, network troubleshooting, and automation using Python.

Qualifications

• Must have US citizenship or permanent resident status.
• Bachelor's degree or 4 additional years of work experience may substitute for a degree.
• Minimum of 8 years of related work experience.
• Experience with Linux systems administration and software development supporting hardware test environments.
• Experience with Windows and Active Directory integration.
• Experience with local firewall configurations and advanced network troubleshooting experience.
• Ability to troubleshoot complex, integrated hardware/software systems under time-sensitive conditions.
• Ability to provide critical, around-the-clock support during major test campaigns (TVAC, acoustics, vibration, launch base operations).
• Familiarity with version control and documentation/release management practices.

Responsibilities

• Develop and configure test rack software for satellite builds.
• Develop and maintain console software for satellite builds.
• Integrate telemetry software for telemetry storage.
• Set up interfaces to enable remote control operations.
• Provide integration and qualification support throughout test phases.
• Support documentation and release management processes.
• Deliver implementation work at an estimated pace of ~24 hours per developer per implementation.

Skills

Linux systems administration

Windows & AD

Network troubleshooting

Python

Telemetry systems

Remote control interfaces

Test database management

Critical 24/7 support

Education

Bachelor's degree or 4 additional years of work experience

Tools

Java Webstart (legacy tools)

Job description

@Orchard LLC is actively seeking a Sr. IT Systems Engineer on behalf of our client, a leading organization in the aerospace and space infrastructure industry.

This position can be based in Palo Alto, CA, Houston, TX, San Jose, CA or remotely within the United States.

Our client is a leading space infrastructure company that builds spacecraft, connects networks, and operates infrastructure-as-a-service for commercial, civil, and national security customers. With a proven track record across the space domain, the company has built over 300 spacecraft, delivered over 260 kilograms of payload to the lunar surface, and provided precision navigation expertise that has guided spacecraft across our solar system.

Recurring Program Deliverables

• Develop and configure test rack software for each satellite build
• Develop and maintain console software packages for satellite build
• Integrate in-house developed telemetry software for telemetry storage
• Set up interfaces to enable remote control operations
• Provide integration and qualification support throughout test phases
• Support documentation and release management processes
• Deliver implementation work at an estimated pace of ~24 hours per developer per implementation (~2 hours per rack)

Periodic Maintenance & Upkeep

• Perform telemetry software updates (requires 1 week advance notice)
• Execute frequent database updates during application, integration, & test phases
• Manage spacecraft analysis software viewing permissions and test databases
• Perform Test Conductor Computer (TCC) maintenance (approx. 2-3 days/month)
• Provide troubleshooting support for Python-based tools
• Critical: Provide 24/7 support coverage during thermal vacuum, antenna, launch base, acoustics, and vibration testing campaigns

New Development

• Lead design work for new programs and test environments
• Develop new test measurement and rack software solutions
• Adapt existing code to meet evolving program requirements
• Support requirements gathering and participate in design reviews
• Architect infrastructure to accommodate new system architecture roadmaps

Minimum Requirements

• Must be a US Citizen or permanent resident
• Bachelor's degree, or 4 additional years of work experience may be substituted for a degree
• Minimum of 8 years of related work experience
• Experience with Linux systems administration and software development supporting hardware test environments
• Experience with Windows and Active Directory integration
• Experience with local firewall configurations and advanced network troubleshooting experience
• Ability to troubleshoot complex, integrated hardware/software systems under time-sensitive conditions
• Ability to provide critical, around-the-clock support during major test campaigns (TVAC, acoustics, vibration, launch base operations)
• Familiarity with version control and documentation/release management practices

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with telemetry systems, remote control interfaces, and test database management
• Experience with Python and legacy tools (e.g., Java Webstart-based applications) is a plus

Compensation

The successful candidate's starting pay will fall within the salary range provided below and is determined based on job-related factors, including, but not limited to, the experience, qualifications, knowledge, skills, geographic work location, and market conditions. Candidates with the minimum necessary experience, qualifications, knowledge, and skill sets for the position should not expect to receive the upper end of the pay range. The base pay range for this position within California is: $143,000.00 - $238,000.00 annually.

• A comprehensive package of benefits is provided, including paid time off, health and welfare insurance, and 401(k) to eligible employees.
• Additionally, this position is incentive-eligible with a target based on contribution, company performance, and/or individual results achieved; the specific incentive plan and target amount will be determined based on the role and breadth of contributions.