Systems Engineer Senior - Avionics & Payloads

We are seeking highly motivated engineers across experience levels to support integration, verification, and operation of advanced spacecraft payloads, including electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) imaging systems, radar sensors, and radio frequency (RF) communication and sensing payloads. This role is designed for individuals who have strong technical fundamentals, high ownership mentality, and the ability to quickly learn and apply new concepts across complex, multi-domain space systems. You will work across hardware, software, and network interfaces to bring diverse payload capabilities from development through test and into operational use. This role is best suited for individuals who prefer ownership and fast-paced execution over narrowly defined responsibilities. Responsibilities Support integration and test of spacecraft payload systems across a range of sensor and communication domains, including EO/IR imaging, radar, and RF payloads, in both space and ground environments Assist in developing and executing verification plans to demonstrate compliance with system, mission, and payload-specific requirements Author and maintain technical documentation including test procedures, interface control documents, test reports, and verification records Participate in system-level test events such as flat-sat, hardware-in-the-loop, sensor characterization, and operational validation. Includes detailed electronics debugging and test setup architecture Work closely with cross-functional teams including supply chain, systems engineering, and chief engineering to resolve integration issues and maintain schedule Coordinate with external vendors and suppliers to track technical progress, manage interface risks, and resolve compatibility issues Support troubleshooting and root-cause analysis during integration and test activities across hardware, firmware, and software layers Contribute to mission operations planning and support early on-orbit payload commissioning activities, including initial sensor characterization and calibration Learn and apply relevant domain knowledge including imaging system performance parameters, radar signal processing fundamentals, communication protocols, timing architectures, and spacecraft interface standards as needed Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field 2–10 years of relevant experience (internships, research, or project work acceptable) Strong engineering fundamentals in at least one of the following areas: EO/IR sensor systems, focal plane arrays, or optical systems Radar systems, signal processing, or RF sensing RF communications, link analysis, or antenna systems Networking or distributed systems Embedded systems or low-level software Demonstrated ability to learn new technical domains quickly and independently Strong problem-solving skills and willingness to engage with ambiguous or incomplete information Ability to communicate technical concepts clearly in both written and verbal formats Initiative to take ownership of tasks and follow through to completion Willingness and eligibility to obtain US security clearance Preferred Qualifications Hands-on experience with payload integration, sensor characterization, lab testing, or debugging of complex hardware/software systems Exposure to EO/IR camera systems including focal plane checkout, thermal management, or image quality verification Familiarity with radar system concepts such as SAR/ISAR processing, waveform design, pulse timing, or clutter environments Experience with RF systems including antenna testing, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, or software-defined radio (SDR) platforms Exposure to hardware/software interaction, real-time systems, or data acquisition pipelines Experience working on team-based engineering projects with defined deliverables and formal review gates Familiarity with basic scripting or automation tools (e.g., Python, Bash) for test automation or data analysis Interest in space systems, remote sensing, communications, or mission operations