Mission Architect / Mission Architectess

Mission Architect, Remote Sensing (OPIR)

Missile warning and remote sensing missions only succeed when someone can connect sensor physics, spacecraft design, and mission-level performance into one coherent architecture. This role is pivotal for national security outcomes.

Our partner is seeking an OPIR subject matter expert to take ownership of mission architecture and constellation design across multiple programs. You will lead both the technical solution and the team, as well as drive business development activities. If you possess extensive remote sensing and OPIR experience, can lead a team while shaping new proposals, and seek genuine influence over the missions you help build, this is a significant opportunity.

The Role

You will serve as the technical authority for Remote Sensing space segment design, covering spacecraft and constellation architecture through to integration with ground and user segments. Approximately half of your time will be spent working directly with customers and stakeholders, while the remainder will involve leading a team of 7 to 10 engineers across architecture, modeling, and analysis.

You will take ownership of mission-level budgets and key performance parameters, including line of sight knowledge, jitter, optical transmission, and latency. Additionally, you will develop the modeling and simulation tools used to validate system performance against these metrics. Your role will also include shaping new business, writing proposals, defining requirements, and supporting programs through to on-orbit operations.

What You’ll Need

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physical sciences, or computer science with 14 or more years of related experience, or a Master’s degree with 12 or more years, or an equivalent combination.
• 10 or more years of experience in the design, development, delivery, and operation of space-based remote sensing missions.
• Experience with Earth observing EO/IR missions, including sensor design and performance.
• Expertise in developing mission modeling and simulation tools to assess sensing mission performance.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical teams and contribute to proposal development and new business initiatives.
• US Citizenship with an active Secret clearance (active within the last 24 months).

What Sets Candidates Apart

• 20 or more years of experience in the design, development, delivery, and operation of space-based OPIR missions.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary technical teams of comparable size.
• Experience across missile warning, tracking, and defense missions, spanning air, ground, space, and user domains.
• Experience modeling constellation-level performance.
• Active TS/SCI clearance.

This is a senior, highly visible position with ample opportunities for growth within the organization. Our partner operates in a fast-paced, agile environment that resembles a startup more than a traditional prime. Candidates who thrive here are comfortable with ambiguity, hands-on by instinct, and motivated to act as thought leaders in their domain.

Apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

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

Contact: Adam Slade