Lead Spacecraft Systems Engineer
Location: Albuquerque, NM
Position Type: Full-time
About Us
BlackVe, Inc is a dynamic and innovative national security-focused space company dedicated to pushing the boundaries of technology and engineering excellence for our exceptional customers.
Job Description
As a Lead Spacecraft Systems Engineer at BlackVe, Inc, you will play a key role in design, analysis, integration, testing, and operation of our spacecraft. You will be critical member of our Spacecraft Programs team by serving as the primary technical authority on a spacecraft system. This includes leading a diverse engineering, software, and integration team to deliver a quality system in alignment with the program risk posture through all phases of the space mission: design, analysis, assembly, integration, test, launch, and operations on-orbit.
If you would like to be responsible for the technical performance of a complete spacecraft system and enjoy working on a Team to discover solutions to difficult engineering problems, you will find work at BlackVe exciting and challenging. As a principal member of the Spacecraft Programs Team, you will have the opportunity to work on exciting projects that will shape the future of national security space.
You will be required to identify and lead work within a small and agile team on a broad set of tasks and ensure the highest quality product through all phases of the space element design, build, test and operations. You will be part of building a culture in our Spacecraft Programs Team that that rewards experienced application of proven approaches and risk management techniques to enable mission success. Collaboration across engineering, assembly, test, and software disciplines is essential. Personal ownership and accountability within the Spacecraft Programs Team is aligned with the necessary responsibilities to be successful within the company.
Essential Job Functions
- Leads, manages, and holds program systems engineering team accountable
- Responsible for the technical quality of all segments of the space mission: ground, launch, and space
- Lead the development of the space mission architecture and CONOPS in accordance with program goals
- Ensure technical architecture satisfies program goals by collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to create and curate system requirements and verification plans across all technical disciplines: mechanical, electrical, guidance and control, propulsion, ground software, flight software, mission software, assembly, integration, test, launch, and mission operations
- Ensure interface consistency across engineering, software, and assembly, integration, and test interfaces, curating all necessary systems engineering documentation
- Enforce configuration control and document review policies and processes
- Lead technical reviews and design trades
- Develop and execute test plans to verify the functionality, performance, and safety of the spacecraft system.
- Identify and manage technical risks in accordance with overall program risk posture
- Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning within the team.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related field.
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in space and aerospace systems, with a focus on systems integration and engineering. Experience developing small spacecraft and/or other direct spacecraft subsystem design and/or test implementation preferred.
- Knowledge and experience across all space mission segments: Ground, Launch, Space
- Knowledge and experience across the full spacecraft lifecycle from concept to disposal
- Strong understanding of applying systems engineering principles, including requirements management, technical risk identification and mitigation, leading design efforts in a schedule and cost constrained project.
- Experience and deep knowledge of space systems and familiarity with spacecraft subsystems (e.g., attitude determination and control, propulsion, avionics) is necessary.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with tight deadlines.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to diverse audiences and collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
- Strong technical leadership skills supporting junior engineering teams and integration with other internal engineering as well as programmatic teams.
- Must have the ability to qualify and maintain a Top Secret security clearance
Location and Travel Requirements
This position is based in Albuquerque, NM, with occasional travel to other company locations or partner facilities as needed.
Why Join Us?
- Opportunity to work at the forefront of technology and innovation to meet the most pressing needs of our national security customers.
- Small, dynamic, high performing team in a collaborative, inclusive work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development
- Competitive salary and benefits package including flexible time off; medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; 401k with non-elective company matching, stock options
ITAR/EAR Requirements
This position may include access to technology and/or data that is subject to U.S. export controls pursuant to ITAR and EAR. To comply with federal export controls, all persons hired must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, refugee or asylee as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(A)(3), or must otherwise be eligible to obtain the required authorization from the U.S. Department of State and/or U.S. Department of Commerce as applicable.
How to Apply
Please submit your resume and brief cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the position to hiring@blackve.us.