Principal ATLO Engineer
Location: El Segundo, California, Onsite
Active TS/SCI Required
Darwin Space is partnering with an exciting national security space company that is developing high-performance small satellites for critical U.S. government missions. We are in search of a Principal Engineer to lead spacecraft assembly, test, and launch operations across multiple satellite programs.
This is an exceptional opportunity for an engineer who has built real spacecraft from end to end, ideally across two or three different spacecraft types. We are looking for someone who is equally adept at leading teams and working hands-on in a cleanroom, integrating hardware, running environmental test campaigns, and preparing vehicles for launch. This position strikes a balance between hands-on work and leadership, with responsibilities split evenly between the two.
The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of small satellite production, high-rate builds, and extensive experience in hardware integration, test execution, and troubleshooting across spacecraft programs.
Role Overview
The Principal Engineer will oversee spacecraft-level assembly, test, and launch operations for multiple programs. Key responsibilities include shaping production flows, driving integration schedules, and ensuring that vehicles meet mission requirements. You will work directly in the cleanroom performing integration and system-level testing while also guiding engineers, reviewing designs, resolving discrepancies, and supporting mission readiness reviews.
This role plays a crucial part in influencing process development, production strategy, proposal inputs, test planning, and the integration of new designs into the production environment. As a technical leadership position, it demands deep spacecraft experience, sound judgment, and the ability to manage complex end-to-end build processes.
Key Responsibilities
- Spacecraft Assembly and Integration:
- Lead planning and execution of spacecraft builds from hardware arrival through final integration.
- Oversee the integration of avionics, structures, propulsion interfaces, harnessing, and mechanical assemblies.
- Engage hands-on with hardware in cleanroom environments.
- Environmental and System Testing:
- Serve as a subject matter expert for EMI, TVAC, vibration, shock, and end-stage satellite testing.
- Lead troubleshooting during environmental campaigns and system-level tests.
- Support Failure Review Boards and resolve critical non-conformances.
- Launch Integration:
- Assist with preparation for launch site activities.
- Oversee integration to launch vehicles and end-to-end readiness tasks.
- Coordinate with mission partners and launch providers.
- Production Leadership:
- Shape production processes for high-rate satellite builds.
- Improve throughput, reduce build hours, and eliminate waste.
- Implement design for testability and manufacturability improvements.
- Technical Leadership and Process Development:
- Mentor ATLO and integration engineers.
- Act as signature authority for quality system updates and design reviews.
- Support proposals, documentation, SOP development, and long-term roadmap alignment.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field.
- Fifteen or more years of experience in spacecraft manufacturing, mechanical, electrical, testing, or process engineering.
- Experience working on constellation spacecraft or multiple production vehicles (three or more units).
- Proficiency with statistics, data analysis, PowerBI, or Tableau.
- Experience with MRP/ERP, Jira, MS Project, MES systems, Teamcenter, or PLM tools.
- Expertise in one or more areas: medium rate production, mechanical integration, electrical testing, spacecraft integration, industrial operations, or systems engineering.
- Active TS/SCI clearance required.
- US Citizenship required.
Preferred Qualifications
- Twenty or more years of experience in space systems.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience working with union-represented technicians.
- Willingness to travel to launch sites and support critical mission milestones.
- Ability to work rotating shifts.
Compensation and Benefits
- Competitive variable compensation.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits.
- Flexible spending and health savings accounts.
- Retirement savings plans.
- Paid time off and a 9/80 schedule.
To apply, please submit your application 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.
Contact: Adam Slade