Spacecraft Project Manager
El Segundo, Los Angeles, California

This is a small satellite company focused on national security space, part of one of the world’s largest aerospace and defence groups. Their missions include missile warning and Earth observation.

They offer startup pace with the stability of the parent business behind it. The work is broad rather than narrow, so engineers here are not pigeonholed into one corner of their discipline.

This role leads the technical side of spacecraft development projects, from conceptual design through final assembly, testing, launch and operations. It carries technical leadership of multidisciplinary teams alongside supplier and stakeholder ownership.

What you will do

• Lead the overall development of spacecraft from conceptual design through final assembly, testing, launch and operations
• Lead spacecraft assembly, integration and testing to meet mission requirements and timelines
• Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to resolve technical challenges and optimise design solutions
• Support launch integration activities, including interfacing with launch providers and getting all spacecraft systems launch ready
• Work with the research and development team to bring new technology into spacecraft design and development
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to engineering teams
• Work with stakeholders so technical objectives are met on time and within budget
• Coordinate with suppliers so deliverables meet technical, budgetary and schedule objectives

Who this suits

• Someone with extensive spacecraft design experience and a deep understanding of spacecraft systems and subsystems
• A proven track record in spacecraft assembly, integration and testing
• An understanding of space mission ground segments, including command and control systems
• Experience with launch integration, including coordination with launch service providers
• Familiarity with orbital mechanics and spacecraft communications systems
• Someone who can lead multidisciplinary teams and bring strong communication and problem solving
• A BS in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering or a related field
• US citizenship, with the ability to obtain and maintain a clearance.
• Useful extras: end to end programme leadership on rapid on orbit tech demo missions, EMC and EMI testing and design, Python, C++ or MATLAB and space system or mission modelling, an advanced degree

What you get

Hybrid working with every other Friday off. This role is export controlled and requires US Person status. There is no visa sponsorship. The company is a drug free workplace with post offer testing, and successful candidates complete a conflict of interest assessment.

Apply

Send your CV through this advert and we’ll come back to you with the full company details and next steps. Darwin Space is a specialist space industry recruitment firm working exclusively on this vacancy. All applications are treated in confidence.

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Adam Slade