Launch Engineer

Description

Reusable systems with frequent launch cadence are the key to seamlessly connecting Earth and space. Highly operable, reliable, and robust ground operations are an integral part of a fully reusable launch system. 

The avionics system is the backbone of highly reusable, operable, and reliable space systems. As the Launch Avionics Integration & Test Engineer at an early-stage start-up, you will be responsible for integrating all avionics flight hardware on the launch vehicle at the final stages of build in the launch hangar at the historic LC-14, where John Glen became the first American to orbit earth.  This will require a diverse understanding of electrical, mechanical, and software interfaces necessary to integrate and operate the launch vehicle.  This includes design, build, and procurement of electrical ground support equipment required to support launch operations in the hangar and on the launch pad.

You will work closely with the avionics, fluids, structures, software, and manufacturing teams to define integration, electrical checkout, avionics test and operations sequences that will culminate in the first launch of the NOVA rocket. You will seek out state-of-the-art solutions to difficult problems and you will assist in the definition of company standards for avionics integration and test at the launch site. You must be ready to stay focused, move fast, self-direct, and learn on the fly.

Responsibilities

• Develop a complete understanding of mechanical, electrical, and software interfaces necessary to integrate and operate the launch vehicle
• Own Nova stage integrated avionics systems from receipt, tests checks, integration, and through  launch operations
• Develop electrical ground support equipment systems and integration and test plans for the complete stage and engine avionics system
• Coordinate with component owners, software and other engineering disciplines to identify and correct integration issues early in the design cycle to streamline launch site operations
• Facilitate/utilize hardware-in-the-loop test solutions to validate vehicle configurations and develop continuous integration test objectives
• Plan, author, and execute system integration and vehicle checkout tests / sequences at the launch site
• Troubleshoot electrical hardware issues on the Nova vehicle, and coordinate with component owners to drive corrective actions and design changes
• Develop day of flight procedures and sequences for battery charging, avionics health checking, and vehicle launch and recovery
• Support integrated stage and hot fire testing at Cape Canaveral
• Operate the vehicle avionics system through day-of launch and recovery

Qualifications  

• B.S. degree in electrical engineering, electronics engineering, mechatronics engineering, or a related computer or engineering degree
• 5+ years of experience in a related role working on avionics / electrical / flight termination systems for launch vehicles or ground support equipment
• Practical and theoretical knowledge of electrical design, integration, and testing
• Proficient creating and implementing procedures and automated test sequences
• Experienced in design and building ground support or automation equipment for vehicle power-up, testing, and validation of launch vehicle systems
• Strong electrical engineering and/or RF fundamentals
• Ability to diagnose and resolve issues with electrical systems, instrumentation systems, and control systems
• Hands-on experience with multimeters, clamp meters, oscilloscopes, megohmmeters, ground resistance testers, and/or loop impedance testers
• Proficient with 2D CAD software and Microsoft Office including Excel, Word, and Visio
• Willing and able to travel and work in various environments (indoor, outdoor, & marine environments)
• Ability to prioritize and execute
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Ability to pass USSF background check for Cape Canaveral Space Force Station
• Willing to relocate to Cape Canaveral, FL

Preferred Qualifications  

• Experienced in integration, test, and operations of complex multidisciplinary systems such as launch vehicles, satellites, aircraft or automotive
• Avionics/GNC hardware in the loop simulation experience
• Experience developing assembly work plans/instructions for mechanical integration of avionics components and harnessing
• Environmental test experience
• Experience with Python, Rust, LabVIEW, LabJack, UEI, National Instruments hardware, etc.
• Familiarity with lab equipment for development testing of circuits and components
• Rigorous attention to detail
• Familiarity with AFSPCMAN 91-710 range requirements as well as DoD explosive siting for launch vehicle flight termination systems
• Experience working with 45^th SW, 30^th SW, and/or NASA and other government agencies

Benefits

• Equity – We know that our employees are the reason we succeed. To give everyone a stake in our future, we are pleased to offer equity in the form of stock options to all regular, full-time employees. 
• Comprehensive benefits program including subsidized medical, dental, and vision insurance 
• Company-paid life and disability insurance 
• 401(k) plan with employer match 
• 4 weeks’ Paid Time Off  
• Holidays – 10 days (including an end-of-year closure) 
• Paid Family/Parental Leave  
• On-site gym or monthly wellness stipend (depending on location) 
• Dog friendly offices! 

Compensation

Target Levels:

• Level 2 Range: $104,500 - $141,400
• Level 3 Range: $123,000 - $184,400
• Level 4 Range: $144,100 - $240,100

Our job posts are intentionally written to attract a wide variety of experience levels, and we make decisions about the right fit on a per-candidate basis. 

Your actual level and base salary will be decided based on your specific experience and skill level.