Senior Systems Integration and Test Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

A New Paradigm For Space Operations.

Who We Are:

Space Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations – one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low-cost, operationally flexible, attainable, distributed) to space missions while reducing the ecosystem's reliance on consumable fuel. In a world where many companies are focused on incrementally improving the status quo, we are focused on creating something entirely different – an architecture underpinned by new first principles to meet the opportunities and challenges of the third space age head-on. Our goal is to move away from one-to-one space architectures – where each satellite in a constellation has one (or a small # of) primary payloads attached to the bus -- and unlock a 'one-to-many' system, where each satellite has a large number of payloads which can be deployed from their host spacecraft at high velocities without firing a thruster.

This is not a role for someone looking for a traditional 40-hour work week. Space Kinetic is building ambitious, first-of-its-kind technology, and that requires urgency, ownership, and a high level of commitment to changing the foundational assumptions for everything we do in space.

What You'll Do:

We are seeking a Senior Systems Integration and Test Engineer to be a key contributor to our current programs. This role is responsible for the hands-on integration of complex hardware and software components and the execution of system-level testing. The engineer will ensure that subsystems function together as expected in various environments. The ideal candidate has a strong background in bringing complex systems to life and verifying their performance against rigorous requirements. Key duties include:

• Develop, document, and execute comprehensive integration and test plans for space-based systems.
• Lead the hands-on integration of hardware and software subsystems, troubleshooting issues at the interface and system level.
• Collaborate with hardware, software, and systems engineering team members to define interface requirements and resolve integration challenges in a timely manner.
• Analyze test data and translate results into clear reports, presentations, and recommendations for stakeholders and cross-functional teams.
• Contribute to the development of automated test scripts and procedures to improve efficiency and test coverage.
• Contribute to the design and build of test Mechanical Ground Support Equipment (MGSE)
• Contribute to the design and build of test Electrical Ground Support Equipment (EGSE)
• Subject matter expertise on integration and test best practices, tools, and procedures.
• Support system verification, validation, and customer acceptance testing activities.

What It Takes:

• Bachelor of Science (BS) or Master of Science (MS) degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Science
• A minimum of 5 years' experience in systems integration and testing, with a proven track record in either RF, SATCOM, radar, wireless systems, flight testing of military missiles, launch vehicles, spacecraft or aircraft.
• Strong hands-on experience in HW/SW integration, system-level testing, and troubleshooting complex technical issues.
• Proficiency with test equipment and software tools such as MATLAB, Python, or LabVIEW.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with distributed, cross-functional teams to resolve technical challenges.
• Familiarity with phased array technologies and satellite communications is a plus.
• Strong communication skills, with experience in technical documentation and reporting.
• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder).
• Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information; Ability to maintain or obtain a Government Security Clearance is required.

What We'd Love:

• Experience with products for aerospace applications.
• Creative approach to problem solving, exceptional analytical skills, and engineering fundamentals.
• Ability to work both autonomously and in a team.
• Strong attitude to achieve results within time and cost constraints.

*Our vision is unique, and so is the team we're building. If you're driven to succeed in this role, even if your background doesn't fully align with every qualification, we want your application.

Where You'll Be:

• The position is onsite at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA.

What We Offer:

• Equity-Based Compensation

• Highly Competitive PTO and Holiday Calendar

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage

• Unique Performance-Based Bonus Structure

• Health and Wellness Stipend

• Commuter Benefits

ITAR Requirements: 
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here

Equal Employment Opportunity:
Space Kinetic provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status.

The annual base salary for this role is below. Pay Grades are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data.  Individual pay will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: interviews and an assessment of several factors that are unique to each candidate, job-related skills, relevant education/experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate and internal equity. 

Pay Range

$150,000—$190,000 USD