Senior Space Systems R&D Lead — Prototyping Satellite Tech

BlackSky

Herndon (VA)

Hybrid

USD 180,000 - 215,000

Full time

12 days ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) with match

Paid time off (PTO)

Job summary

BlackSky is seeking a Principal Space Systems Research and Development Engineer to lead a portfolio of satellite-related technologies and drive prototypes toward integration with BlackSky’s operational capabilities.

You will shepherd ideas from funding and feasibility through technical execution, collaborating with engineering and customer-facing teams, while mentoring others and shaping the roadmap for space systems development.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics or comparable field.
Extensive systems engineering experience on space systems (12+ years).
Direct work on multiple flight programs (5+).
Direct tech lead experience on multiple space hardware developments (5+).
Experience across electrical, mechanical and software disciplines.
Experience capturing government contracts with US government customers (5+).
Ability to drive cross‑functional efforts in fast-paced environments.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills; able to address technical and non‑technical audiences.
Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.

Responsibilities

Identify satellite technologies of strategic interest and build a focused portfolio.
Source R&D funds through Sales/BD and Customer Program Managers; prepare whitepapers and pitches.
Lead the funded program’s technical execution and assess impact and feasibility.
Facilitate transition of validated prototypes to Engineering for integration.
Mentor engineers and share knowledge of advanced technologies.
Perform other duties as assigned.