Chief Spacecraft Engineer

Title: Chief Spacecraft Engineer
Location: Greater Santa Barbara Area
Position Type: Direct Hire, Full-Time, Hybrid
Salary: $180,000-$250,000

We are currently seeking a new Chief Hardware Engineer with extensive experience across spacecraft design, testing, and operations. This technical role provides strategic oversight and guidance on all Space Systems hardware, ensuring a balance between traditional spacecraft engineering and agile commercial approaches. The ideal candidate values a test-driven, risk-aware methodology and is comfortable diving deep into technical details. Reporting to the VP, this role also involves close collaboration with the COO and CEO.

Key Responsibilities:

• Examine all electrical schematics for accuracy
• Assess all mechanical drawings for compliance
• Lead the technical oversight of space flight hardware within the Space Systems Department
• Collaborate technically with functional Directors and Engineering Management
• Supervise the Mechanical and Electrical spacecraft hardware teams
• Manage the progress and quality of hardware development
• Contribute to all technical design reviews
• Establish and update spacecraft hardware design processes and guidelines
• Plan and implement experimental hardware testing campaigns
• Fulfill additional professional responsibilities as assigned

Basic Qualifications:

• Experienced in creating, documenting, and managing space system requirements
• Over 12 years of experience in space flight hardware design and manufacturing
• More than 12 years of experience in aerospace engineering
• Background in developing embedded and flight software
• Skilled in reviewing mechanical drawings and space mechanisms
• Proficient in electrical design, analysis, and layout
• Bachelor's and Master's degrees in a relevant engineering discipline

Desired Qualifications:

• Hands-on experience and fundamental knowledge of mechanical and electrical space systems
• 15+ years of experience in aerospace engineering
• 10+ years of experience in the design and manufacturing of flight hardware
• 5+ years of experience in executing research and development test campaigns
• Experience with space-based remote sensing missions
• Experience on multiple launch integration campaigns

Compensation and Benefits:

• $180,000-$250,000 Base Salary (Please note this number ultimately comes down to experience and technical skill set)
• Flexible Time Off, Sick, Family & Medical Leave
• 10% Annual Target Bonus
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, LTD, STD (employer funded)
• Vol Life, Critical Illness, Accidental, Hospital Indemnity, Pet Insurance (employee funded)
• 401k with 3% non-elective company contribution
• Stock Options

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