Principal R&D Solutions Engineer, Space Systems

HEO; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 250,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ESOP

401(k)

Healthcare

PTO

Holidays

Job summary

HEO is a US-based space startup expanding its US delivery capabilities. We seek a Principal R&D Solutions Engineer to lead technically on major USG programs, delivering bespoke NRE solutions and experimental features.

You will bridge Australia-based teams with the US operation, setting standards and pipelines for scalable engineering growth. You will design, implement, and validate mission-critical capabilities using Python and STK, drive automation from R&D to operations, and guide

Qualifications

• 10+ years of space mission analysis, orbital mechanics, or satellite operations, with or in support of the IC or DoD.
• Demonstrated experience in non-recurring engineering and building custom technical solutions for space-domain challenges.
• Advanced proficiency in Python for data analysis; expert-level with STK or similar high-fidelity orbital modeling software.
• Strong technical leadership with ability to manage high-stakes customer relationships and grow an engineering discipline in a startup.
• Deep background in LEO/GEO mission operations and development of mission ops and ground segment software.
• Bachelor's degree or higher in Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or related field.
• Active Top Secret clearance preferred; ability to obtain or maintain US government Top Secret clearance.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary technical interface for major USG projects, translating system capabilities into mission-ready solutions.
• Lead the R&D to Ops pipeline by designing plans for NEI data collection and automation; implement Python to operationalize capabilities.
• Model complex satellite encounters using STK and Python libraries to optimize sensor tasking and validate orbital dynamics.
• Research and implement novel analysis techniques and data visualization to enhance the platform for government users.
• Direct the technical development and expansion of GEO mission frameworks while scaling LEO ops capabilities.
• Ideate and develop MVPs and experimental features to test with USG customers for rapid feedback.
• Lead the technical vetting of subcontractors to ensure alignment with high USG contract standards.

Skills

Python

STK

Orbital mechanics

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in Engineering, Physics, Mathematics

Tools

STK

Python

Job description

HEO is a US-based space startup expanding its US delivery capabilities. We seek a Principal R&D Solutions Engineer to lead technically on major USG programs, delivering bespoke NRE solutions and experimental features.

You will bridge Australia-based teams with the US operation, setting standards and pipelines for scalable engineering growth. You will design, implement, and validate mission-critical capabilities using Python and STK, drive automation from R&D to operations, and guide