Senior Spacecraft Engineer / Senior Spacecraft Engineeress

Senior Spacecraft Integration & Test Engineer

Our client is seeking a seasoned ATLO (Assembly, Test, and Launch Operations) engineer to take on a player-coach role in the assembly, integration, and environmental testing of a growing line of small satellites. This position involves a balance of hands-on cleanroom work and leading a team through multiple parallel programs.

If you have experience building spacecraft across various programs and desire a role that keeps you close to the hardware while offering substantial influence over team operations, this opportunity is designed for you. The environment is dynamic and fast-paced, making it ideal for those who thrive under such conditions.

The Role

Approximately 40% of your time will be dedicated to hands-on hardware integration and testing, working in the cleanroom. Your responsibilities will include assembly, troubleshooting, and conducting environmental campaigns encompassing EMI/EMC, dynamics, and thermal vacuum (TVAC) tests. The remaining time will be spent in a player-coach capacity, leading and guiding the ATLO team across multiple ongoing programs. You will serve as a signature authority on test and assembly procedures, contribute to early design and proposal efforts to enhance manufacturability, and work closely with engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams.

This role offers an exciting blend of individual contribution and leadership, providing genuine input into how multiple satellite programs are developed and delivered.

What You’ll Need

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related technical or scientific field with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience.
• Hands-on experience in building and integrating spacecraft across at least two to three different programs (satellite, rover, lunar, or similar platforms that operate in space; launch vehicle experience is not applicable).
• Background in mechanical or electrical integration, test engineering, or spacecraft integration within aerospace, automotive, or commercial production environments.
• Comfortable working in a cleanroom environment and on a rotating shift pattern, with occasional travel to test or launch sites.
• US Person status is required.

What Sets Candidates Apart

• 7 or more years of experience specifically in space systems, ideally satellite or spacecraft integration.
• Experience supporting multiple programs concurrently in a high-production small satellite environment.
• Proficiency in writing work instructions and test procedures for critical aerospace hardware.
• Familiarity with hardware integration tools such as NI LabVIEW, DAQ hardware, power supplies, and signal analyzers.
• Active TS/SCI clearance, which may provide access to additional high-level programs.

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