Spacecraft Systems Integration & Test Responsible Engineer

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 RoleAs 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.ResponsibilitiesSystem Integration & Test OwnershipPlan, coordinate, and execute system-level integration of spacecraft subsystemsOversee and support system-level testing, including:Functional and performance testingEnvironmental testing (vibration, thermal-vacuum)Develop, review, and approve system-level test proceduresAnalyze test data and lead anomaly investigation and resolutionVerification, Validation & Flight ReadinessOwn verification and validation of platform-level system requirementsMaintain system-level verification artifacts, test reports, and compliance documentationSupport qualification, acceptance, and flight readiness reviewsSupport launch site activities and on-orbit commissioning as neededExecution & Risk ManagementTrack requirement changes, risks, and mitigation actions during integration and testSupport system-level failure investigations and root cause analysisFeed lessons learned back into design teams to improve future iterationsCross-Functional ExecutionCollaborate closely with manufacturing, test, quality, and subsystem teamsCommunicate system status, risks, and issues clearly to technical and non-technical stakeholdersParticipate in customer meetings, design reviews, and program status updatesRequirementsU.S. Person status (ability to access export-controlled data)Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related field6+ years of experience with system integration, test, and qualificationStrong understanding of satellite subsystems and system-level interactionsExperience planning and executing system-level testsStrong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skillsPreferredPrior flight hardware experienceExperience supporting spacecraft environmental testing campaignsFamiliarity with aerospace verification and qualification standardsExperience operating in a production or high-rate environment#LI-JC1Why Join Apex?Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup that has raised more than $500M in funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.What We Offer For Full-time Employees:Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you createBest-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no costComprehensive PTO package: Starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidaysCompetitive 401(k) plan: 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 travelDaily catered lunch and unlimited snacks: To keep you fueled throughout the dayVibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your familyYour dream desk setup: All the tools you need to be your most productive selfWorld-class Playa Vista office: With the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and lifeReal impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting differenceAdditional Information: Compensation ranges are set by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. A candidate's specific level and base pay are determined case by case and may vary with job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities, and internal equity. Beyond base salary, full-time hires are also eligible for long-term incentives in the form of stock options, along with medical, dental, and vision coverage and a 401(k) retirement plan.ITAR RequirementsApex's work is governed by U.S. export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). To be eligible for this role, applicants must either (1) qualify as a U.S. Person, meaning a U.S. citizen or national, a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), a refugee admitted under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or an individual granted asylum under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or (2) be able to obtain the required export authorizations from the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Department of Commerce, or another applicable U.S. government agency. You can learn more about ITAR here.Equal Opportunity EmployerApex 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.Compensation Range: $165K - $200KLocationLos AngelesEmployment TypeFull timeDepartmentEngineeringCompensation$165K – $200K • Offers EquityThe stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base salary range and excludes additional benefits. If your salary requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply.