Lead Satellite Launch Engineer

Apex Space, Inc.; Los Angeles (CA); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity in Apex

Health insurance

Paid time off

401(k) matching

Parental leave

Free daily lunch

Office events

Flexible remote option

Job summary

Apex Space, Inc. is seeking a Lead Launch Engineer in Playa Vista to own complex spacecraft mission integration and serve as the primary technical liaison with launch providers.

You will manage launch campaigns, coordinate with mechanical, avionics, and systems teams, and mentor the engineering group while balancing long-term planning with hands-on execution.

This role requires a U.S. Person and a strong track record of successful campaigns in a fast-paced aerospace environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a related field and 7+ years of launch experience.
• Experience owning launch campaigns and working with launch providers.
• Hands-on satellite testing and environmental qualification.

Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate payload integration with launch vehicles and separation systems.
• Define mission requirements, interfaces, and integration schedules with providers.
• Develop satellite launch plans, procedures, and readiness reviews.
• Oversee satellite transport, handling and pre-launch processing at sites.
• Ensure compatibility between satellite and launch vehicle mechanical, electrical, and environmental interfaces.
• Support environmental testing (vibration, thermal, EMI/EMC) for readiness.
• Conduct system-level checkouts and troubleshooting during countdowns.
• Interface with regulatory agencies for launch approvals and standards.
• Provide real-time technical support during campaigns and resolve anomalies.
• Collaborate with mechanical, avionics, and systems teams to optimize processes.

Skills

U.S. Person status

Launch campaigns

Team leadership

Excel proficiency

Mentoring engineers

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering

Tools

AFSPCMAN 91-710

Job description

Apex Space, Inc. is seeking a Lead Launch Engineer in Playa Vista to own complex spacecraft mission integration and serve as the primary technical liaison with launch providers.

You will manage launch campaigns, coordinate with mechanical, avionics, and systems teams, and mentor the engineering group while balancing long-term planning with hands-on execution.

This role requires a U.S. Person and a strong track record of successful campaigns in a fast-paced aerospace environment.