Job Title: Aerospace Payload Systems Engineer

Location: Herndon, VA

Salary Range: $90,000 - $160,000 (Based on experience, education, and skills)

About the Role Space-based lasers and electro-optical systems are our specialty. We develop cutting-edge atmospheric sensing, laser communications, and lidar sensors for NASA, DoD, and other aerospace customers. We are seeking an Aerospace Payload Systems Engineer to join our growing team. You will work alongside veteran systems engineers on requirements flowdowns, interface management, and integration & test planning, while receiving the mentorship needed to become a future program lead.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (program managers, scientists, engineers) to develop new technologies and laser systems for military and space applications.
• Develop, flow down, track, and verify technical requirements.
• Manage critical technical resources, including mass, volume, and power.
• Oversee and document internal and external system interfaces.
• Develop test plans and actively participate in test execution.
• Lead special projects such as system trade studies, anomaly resolution, root cause assessments, and risk-reduction.
• Prepare technical documentation and present findings at technical reviews.

Required Experience & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, or Optics.
• 5+ years of relevant experience is preferred.
• Hands-on experience designing and testing engineering or scientific instrumentation.
• Proficiency in the fundamental principles of optics.
• Experience in at least one of the following: spaceflight hardware, electro-optical systems, or hardware systems engineering.
• Strong written and verbal technical communication skills, with leadership experience preferred.
• U.S. Citizenship is required.
• Active Secret or Top-Secret Clearance (or the ability to acquire one) is preferred.

Benefits We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our team, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) plan with company match and immediate vesting
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA)
• Disability, life insurance, and AD&D
• Paid time off, holidays, and education assistance
• Flexible work schedules, including a 9/80 alternate workweek option