Spacecraft Systems Integration & Test Responsible Engineer

Cantos Ventures; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity in Apex

100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision

Generous PTO package

Competitive 401(k) plan with matching

8 weeks paid parental leave

Daily catered lunch and snacks

Vibrant community activities

Dream desk setup

Collaborative office environment

Opportunity to work with industry experts

Job summary

Apex in Los Angeles is seeking a Spacecraft Systems Integration & Test Responsible Engineer to oversee the execution of spacecraft integration and testing. You will ensure systems are flight-ready through verification, validation, and effective communication with cross-functional teams.

The ideal candidate will possess at least 6 years of experience in system integration and hold a Bachelor's in a relevant engineering field. Join Apex to work in a vibrant environment that promotes professional growth.

Qualifications

• U.S. Person status to access export-controlled data.
• 6+ years of experience with system integration and qualification.
• Experience with satellite subsystems and system-level interactions.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute system-level spacecraft integration.
• Oversee system-level testing, including functional and environmental testing.
• Analyze test data and lead anomaly investigations.

Skills

System integration

Test planning and execution

Problem-solving skills

Strong communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or related field

Job description

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

For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.

Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.

We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.

About the Role

As a Spacecraft Systems Integration & Test Responsible Engineer, you will be responsible for turning mature satellite platform designs into flight‑ready systems. You will operate at the integration, test, and qualification phase of the product lifecycle, owning execution and ensuring the spacecraft meets system requirements and performs reliably in flight.

This role is the single-threaded owner for system-level integration, verification, anomaly resolution, and flight readiness.

Responsibilities

System Integration & Test Ownership

• Plan, coordinate, and execute system-level integration of spacecraft subsystems

• Oversee and support system-level testing, including:

  • Functional and performance testing

  • Environmental testing (vibration, thermal‑vacuum)

• Develop, review, and approve system-level test procedures

• Analyze test data and lead anomaly investigation and resolution

Verification, Validation & Flight Readiness

• Own verification and validation of platform-level system requirements

• Maintain system-level verification artifacts, test reports, and compliance documentation

• Support qualification, acceptance, and flight readiness reviews

• Support launch site activities and on‑orbit commissioning as needed

Execution & Risk Management

• Track requirement changes, risks, and mitigation actions during integration and test

• Support system-level failure investigations and root cause analysis

• Feed lessons learned back into design teams to improve future iterations

Cross-Functional Execution

• Collaborate closely with manufacturing, test, quality, and subsystem teams

• Communicate system status, risks, and issues clearly to technical and non-technical stakeholders

• Participate in customer meetings, design reviews, and program status updates

Requirements

• U.S. Person status (ability to access export‑controlled data)

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related field

• 6+ years of experience with system integration, test, and qualification

• Strong understanding of satellite subsystems and system-level interactions

• Experience planning and executing system-level tests

• Strong problem‑solving, organizational, and communication skills

Preferred

• Prior flight hardware experience

• Experience supporting spacecraft environmental testing campaigns

• Familiarity with aerospace verification and qualification standards

• Experience operating in a production or high‑rate environment

What We Offer For Full-time Employees:

• Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create

• Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company‑paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost

• Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays

• Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%

• 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work‑related travel

• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day

• Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family

• Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self

• World‑class Playa Vista office with the benefit of in‑person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life

• Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting‑edge industries to make a lasting difference

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 always 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.