Lead Spacecraft Systems Engineer

EVONA; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 160,000 - 220,000; Full time

Job summary

EVONA is seeking a skilled Spacecraft Systems Engineer to lead the development of satellite systems for both commercial and defense applications. This role involves creating end-to-end system architectures, managing technical development across multidisciplinary teams, and addressing the complexities of spacecraft subsystems. Applicants should have significant engineering experience, particularly in spacecraft design, and be prepared to drive innovative solutions in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of engineering or technical project management experience, with 3+ focused on spacecraft/satellite.
• At least 3 years in a leadership role managing technical interdisciplinary teams.
• Deep expertise in at least one satellite subsystem.

Responsibilities

• Define and evolve spacecraft system architecture, including subsystem interfaces.
• Own system-level requirements and verification planning across the satellite lifecycle.
• Lead technical integration of all spacecraft subsystems.

Skills

Python

STK

Matlab

Education

B.S. or M.S. Degree in Electrical, Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering

Job description

1 week ago Be among the first 25 applicants

This range is provided by EVONA. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

$160,000.00/yr - $220,000.00/yr

Our client is looking for a talented Spacecraft Systems Engineer with a strong technical expertise and a demonstrated background of spacecraft or subsystem development to help drive the development of satellites.

They specializes in developing and deploying a network of satellites in Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) to provide ultra-high-resolution Earth imagery. Aims to deliver timely and actionable data for commercial and defense applications.

What you will do:

The Lead Spacecraft Systems Engineer owns the end-to-end system architecture of the spacecraft, with a particular emphasis on the non-payload subsystems, driving technical development, navigating technical challenges and working across multidisciplinary teams. This role encompasses technical development (from architectural development through spacecraft integration and test) and technical leadership, program management, and effective people management providing mentorship and fostering a culture of innovation. By leveraging technical expertise and leadership skills, you will drive the execution of spacecraft development activities and empower your team to achieve ambitious goals by establishing and optimizing efficient processes.

Responsibilities:

• Define and evolve the spacecraft system architecture, including subsystem interfaces, performance budgets, and trade studies
• Own system-level requirements, allocation, and verification planning across the satellite lifecycle
• Lead technical integration of all spacecraft subsystems
• Drive system-level analyses (e.g., power, thermal, link, mass, data) and identify key design trades
• Coordinate with subsystem leads, program management, test, and manufacturing teams to ensure alignment on scope and schedule
• Develop and manage Interface Control Documents (ICDs), CONOPS, and system-level documentation
• Support test planning and execution, including environmental testing, functional tests, and mission simulation
• Participate in mission assurance and launch integration activities
• Identify and manage risks associated with program execution by implementing effective mitigation strategies
• Facilitate problem-solving and decision-making by fostering communication and collaboration among team
• Provide direct technical support to complement subsystem leads by offering expertise and guidance to resolve complex technical challenges

Required Qualifications:

• B.S. or M.S. Degree in Electrical, Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering, or similar engineering discipline
• 10+ years of engineering or technical project management experience with 3+ of those years focused on spacecraft/satellite applications
• A minimum of 3 years experience in a leadership role managing technical interdisciplinary teams to develop a complex spacecraft, ideally with earth observation capabilities
• Deep expertise in at least one satellite subsystem; demonstrated systems-level expertise across all subsystems
• Skilled in modeling and analysis tools (e.g. Python, STK, Matlab)
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to navigate complex technical challenges
• Proven experience in spacecraft development, supply chain, and AI&T
• Ability to translate highly complex technical concepts and ideas to a non-technical audience
• Experience in a startup environment is preferred

Compensation:

The salary range for this role is $160,000-$220,000 per year, depending on previous experience. Pay ranges are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual pay will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: interviews and an assessment of several factors that are unique to each candidate, job-related skills, relevant education and experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate and internal equity.

Work Location:

This role can be in either Louisville, CO or in Seattle, WA.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Engineering, Design, and Science

• Industries

  Defense and Space Manufacturing, Space Research and Technology, and Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing

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