?️ Space Systems Lead - Optical Payloads / Spacecraft Systems

I’m supporting an early-stage space company developing advanced laser communication terminals for spacecraft.

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.

This role will sit across the full spacecraft system, including:

• Systems architecture and requirements

• Optical payload integration

• Avionics, power, thermal and mechanical interfaces

• Spacecraft interface definition

• Verification and validation

• SRR / PDR / CDR / TRR

• TVAC, vibration, shock, EMC and radiation qualification

• AIT and launch readiness

• On-orbit commissioning and technical troubleshooting

The key requirement is genuine end-to-end flight hardware experience.

I’m looking for someone who can point to a spacecraft, payload or subsystem and say:

“I owned this system from early architecture through qualification and launch.”

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.

Relevant backgrounds include spacecraft, optical payloads, satellite communications, EO/IR systems and complex space hardware.

? US-based

? Competitive senior-level package + equity

Feel free to message me confidentially if you'd like more detail.