Lead System Engineer

Strativ Group; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace company seeks a Payload Systems Engineer to oversee the integration and operation of advanced mission payloads. This role involves managing complex flight platforms and ensuring compliance across multiple testing environments. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of experience in payload systems and aerospace integration, along with a strong systems engineering background. The position offers a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology that impacts global connectivity and climate monitoring.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in payload systems, aerospace integration, or complex hardware platforms.
• Strong systems engineering background including requirements and configurations.
• Knowledge of power systems and RF architectures.

Responsibilities

• Own payload system integration and manage payload interfaces.
• Lead integration, verification, and validation across environments.
• Drive test campaigns for performance and compliance.

Skills

Payload systems integration

Systems engineering

Cross-functional leadership

Troubleshooting and design reviews

Education

Advanced degree in engineering or physics

Job description

A fast-growing aerospace company at the forefront of high-altitude platform systems (HAPS) is looking for a Payload Systems Engineer to drive the integration and operation of advanced mission payloads.

This is a unique opportunity to work on next‑generation stratospheric platforms delivering telecommunications, Earth observation, and remote sensing capabilities - supporting critical applications from disaster response to global connectivity.

🔧 What you’ll do:

• Own end-to-end payload system integration across complex flight platforms
• Define and manage payload interfaces (mechanical, electrical, thermal, RF, and data)
• Lead integration, verification, and validation across lab, ground, and flight environments
• Drive test campaigns (EMI/EMC, thermal, vibration, functional performance)
• Act as the technical authority across cross‑functional teams and external vendors
• Lead troubleshooting, root-cause analysis, and design reviews (PDR/CDR/TRR)
• Oversee documentation, compliance, and flight readiness for payload systems

🧠 What we’re looking for:

• 10+ years in payload systems, aerospace integration, or complex hardware platforms
• Strong systems engineering background (requirements, ICDs, V&V, configuration management)
• Knowledge of power systems, data buses (Ethernet, CAN, SpaceWire), and RF architectures
• Proven ability to lead cross‑functional engineering efforts and complex programs
• Experience with UAVs, satellites, or high‑altitude systems
• Familiarity with aerospace standards (FAA, NASA, FCC, etc.)
• Advanced degree in engineering or physics

✨ Why this role stands out:

You’ll be shaping payload systems that operate at the edge of the stratosphere - working on technology that directly impacts connectivity, climate monitoring, and global‑scale sensing.

If you’re interested (or know someone who might be), feel free to reach out or apply directly.