Spacecraft Avionics Engineer (Mid)

Apex - Satellite Platforms; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 125,000 - 155,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity in Apex

100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision

15+ days vacation plus paid holidays

Competitive 401(k) plan with matching

Paid parental leave and childcare reimbursement

Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks

Job summary

Apex - Satellite Platforms is seeking an Avionics Engineer in Los Angeles, California, to design avionics systems for satellite platforms. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams and ensure optimal integration of electrical components.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering and has 3-6 years of relevant experience. We offer a competitive salary range between $125,000 and $155,000 along with comprehensive employee benefits.

Qualifications

• 3-6 years of experience in avionics and electrical engineering in aerospace.
• Strong knowledge of electrical engineering principles.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop avionics systems for satellite platforms.
• Collaborate with teams to ensure integration of subsystems.
• Define and execute test plans for avionics systems.

Skills

Proficiency in designing avionics systems

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Collaboration within cross-functional teams

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s in Electrical or Avionics Engineering

Tools

eCAD software (e.g., Altium)

Circuit simulation software (e.g., LTSpice)

PCB design tools

Job description

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies are launching payloads to space.

For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies, combined with reduced launch costs, has created a massive increase in demand for commercial spacecraft platforms, or satellite buses. These buses carry customers’ payloads and are flown on launch vehicles.

Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using software, vertical integration, and manufacturing‑ready hardware. Our spacecraft enable the future of society—from earth observation to communications and more.

About The Role

Apex is looking for an Avionics Engineer to design and develop avionics systems and electrical components for satellite platforms. The role involves collaborating with cross‑functional teams, developing electrical architectures, and ensuring seamless integration of subsystems while maintaining the highest performance standards.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop avionics systems and electrical components for satellite systems, considering mission requirements, technical specifications, and industry standards.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams—mechanical, systems, and software engineers—to ensure seamless integration of avionics subsystems into the satellite platform.
• Develop and implement electrical system architectures and schematics, including power distribution, communication interfaces, and control systems.
• Design and create electrical boards, including printed circuit boards (PCBs), with careful component placement, signal routing, and manufacturability considerations.
• Conduct thorough research and analysis to select suitable electronic components, such as sensors, transmitters, receivers, and processors, that meet project requirements.
• Define and execute comprehensive test plans and procedures to validate avionics and electrical systems’ performance, ensuring compliance with specifications and safety standards.
• Identify and resolve electrical and avionics system issues during development, integration, and testing phases, employing analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Work closely with interdisciplinary teams to coordinate activities, share knowledge, and provide technical guidance on avionics and electrical engineering aspects.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements and emerging trends in avionics and electrical engineering for satellite systems, and apply innovative solutions to enhance performance and efficiency.

Requirements

• U.S. Person status is required to access export‑controlled data.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Avionics Engineering, or a related field. Advanced degrees are preferred.
• 3–6 years of relevant experience in avionics and electrical engineering, preferably in the aerospace or satellite industry.
• Proficiency in designing and developing avionics systems, electrical circuits, and subsystems.
• Strong knowledge of electrical engineering principles, including analog and digital circuit design, power electronics, and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC).
• Experience with electrical design tools such as eCAD software (e.g., Altium), circuit simulation software (e.g., LTSpice), and PCB design tools.
• Problem‑solving skills: ability to analyze complex electrical and avionics engineering problems, identify innovative solutions, and implement effective troubleshooting techniques.
• Proven ability to collaborate within cross‑functional teams, communicate complex technical concepts, and work toward shared project goals.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high‑quality work while adhering to project deadlines and budget constraints. Ability to debug complex problems using typical tools such as Logic Analyzer, Oscilloscopes, and Spectrum Analyzers.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast‑paced and dynamic environment, adapting to changing priorities and technologies.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to convey technical information and collaborate with stakeholders at various levels.

Compensation

Salary Range: $125,000 – $155,000 per year (base salary only; benefits not included).

Why Join Apex?

Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. We are a fast‑growing startup that has raised more than $500M in funding and invest heavily in our people from day one.

What We Offer for Full‑time Employees

• Shared upside: receive equity in Apex.
• Best‑in‑class healthcare: 100% company‑paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100,000 life insurance at no cost.
• Comprehensive PTO package—starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays.
• Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching—100% match on the first 3%, 50% on the next 2%.
• 8 weeks of paid parental leave and childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work‑related travel.
• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks.
• Vibrant community: monthly office socials, sports tournaments, run club, and family gatherings.
• Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be most productive.
• World‑class Playa Vista office with in‑person collaboration and flexibility to integrate work and life.
• Real impact opportunity: work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting‑edge industries.

Equal Opportunity Employer.

Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.