Job Description
🛰️ Space Systems Lead - Optical Payloads / Spacecraft Systems
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I’m supporting an early-stage space company developing advanced laser communication terminals for spacecraft.
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They’re hiring a Space Systems Lead to take technical ownership of the space segment and help move complex optical hardware from architecture through qualification, launch and on-orbit operation.
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This role will sit across the full spacecraft system, including:
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• Systems architecture and requirements
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• Optical payload integration
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• Avionics, power, thermal and mechanical interfaces
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• Spacecraft interface definition
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• Verification and validation
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• SRR / PDR / CDR / TRR
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• TVAC, vibration, shock, EMC and radiation qualification
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• AIT and launch readiness
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• On-orbit commissioning and technical troubleshooting
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The key requirement is genuine end-to-end flight hardware experience.
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I’m looking for someone who can point to a spacecraft, payload or subsystem and say:
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“I owned this system from early architecture through qualification and launch.”
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You’ll likely have 5+ years in spacecraft or payload development and experience operating across multiple engineering disciplines rather than working purely within requirements management.
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Relevant backgrounds include spacecraft, optical payloads, satellite communications, EO/IR systems and complex space hardware.
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📍 US-based
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💰 Competitive senior-level package + equity
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Feel free to message me confidentially if you'd like more detail.