Mission Architect / Mission Architectess

Mission Architect, Remote Sensing (OPIR)

Missile warning and remote sensing missions only succeed when an individual can connect sensor physics, spacecraft design, and mission-level performance into one coherent architecture. This role is crucial 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. This individual will lead both the technical solution and team, as well as business development activities. If you possess deep remote sensing and OPIR experience, can guide a team while also shaping new proposals, and want genuine influence over the missions you help create, this is one of the most significant positions we are currently representing.

The Role

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

You will own mission-level budgets and key performance parameters, including line of sight knowledge, jitter, optical transmission, and latency. Additionally, you will develop modeling and simulation tools used to validate system performance against these parameters. Your leadership will also extend to 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.
• 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 substantial opportunities for growth within the organization. Our partner operates in a fast-paced, agile environment reminiscent of a startup rather 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. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

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

Adam Slade