Principal Systems Engineer

Role overview Lead the technical integration of spacecraft with launch vehicles, serving as the main engineering contact for launch providers and the technical authority during launch campaigns. The work spans interface definition, compatibility analysis, spacecraft processing, and readiness decisions through launch.

Responsibilities - Represent the spacecraft team in provider meetings, integration reviews, and technical working groups. - Define and maintain interface requirements and control documents, managing revisions through formal configuration processes. - Coordinate compatibility studies covering mass properties, structural and coupled loads, environments, thermal, radio frequency, electrical, and separation systems. - Track launch requirements, verification plans, and mission assurance deliverables, and ensure requirements are reflected in spacecraft and ground designs. - Lead spacecraft processing, integration, encapsulation, and launch-site coordination with provider, range, and facility teams. - Lead readiness reviews, advise leadership on technical go/no-go decisions, and contribute to launch provider assessments and trade studies.

Requirements - Bachelor’s degree in aerospace, mechanical, systems engineering, or a related technical field. - At least eight years in aerospace systems engineering, including three or more years in launch integration, launch interfaces, or launch-site operations for a spacecraft or payload that has flown. - Ability to make sound technical decisions under schedule pressure and manage evolving requirements and interfaces. - Strong written and verbal communication, including technical negotiation and briefings for technical and executive audiences. - Detail-oriented documentation and verification practices, with the ability to work independently and influence teams without direct authority. - U.S. person status and eligibility to obtain and maintain access to designated launch facilities.

Nice to have - Experience with multiple launch vehicles or leading a spacecraft campaign at the launch site. - Familiarity with range safety requirements and launch facilities in the Cape Canaveral area. - Ability to interpret CAD views and structural or thermal analysis outputs.

Benefits and work setup Remote role based within commuting distance of Cape Canaveral, Florida, with a dedicated home office and reliable internet. Work at launch and processing facilities may involve cleanrooms, hazardous or outdoor settings, and irregular extended hours during campaigns. Travel may reach 20%, including to provider facilities and non-Florida launch sites.