Senior Systems Integration and Test Engineer

A New Paradigm For Space Operations.

Who We Are:  

Space Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations - one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low-cost, operationally flexible, attainable, distributed) to space missions while reducing the ecosystem's reliance on consumable fuel. In a world where many companies are focused on incrementally improving the status quo,  we are focused on creating something entirely different - an architecture underpinned by new first principles to meet the opportunities and challenges of the third space age head-on.  Our goal is to move away from one-to-one space architectures - where each satellite in a constellation has one (or a small # of) primary payloads attached to the bus -- and unlock a ‘one-to-many’ system, where each satellite has a large number of payloads which can be deployed from their host spacecraft at high velocities without firing a thruster.

This is not a role for someone looking for a traditional 40-hour work week. Space Kinetic is building ambitious, first-of-its-kind technology, and that requires urgency, ownership, and a high level of commitment to changing the foundational assumptions for everything we do in space.

What You’ll Do:

We are seeking a Senior Systems Integration and Test Engineer to integrate complex hardware and software and execute system-level testing for space-based systems. This hands-on role will verify subsystem performance, troubleshoot integration issues, and ensure systems meet requirements.

Job Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute system integration and test plans.
• Integrate hardware and software subsystems and troubleshoot interface-level issues.
• Define interface requirements with hardware, software, and systems engineering teams.
• Analyze test data and communicate results through reports, presentations, and recommendations.
• Develop automated test scripts and procedures to improve efficiency and test coverage.
• Design and build mechanical and electrical ground support equipment.
• Support system verification, validation, and customer acceptance testing.
• Establish integration and test best practices, tools, and procedures.

What It Takes:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 5+ years of systems integration and testing experience.
• Experience with RF, SATCOM, radar, wireless systems, or flight testing of missiles, launch vehicles, spacecraft, or aircraft.
• Hands-on experience with hardware/software integration, system-level testing, and troubleshooting.
• Proficiency with test equipment and tools such as MATLAB, Python, or LabVIEW.
• Experience collaborating across distributed, cross-functional engineering teams.
• Strong technical documentation, reporting, and communication skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance.

What We’d Love:

• Experience developing products for aerospace applications.
• Familiarity with phased-array technologies or satellite communications.
• Strong analytical skills and a creative approach to problem-solving.
• Ability to work autonomously and deliver results within time and cost constraints.

Where You’ll Be:  

• The position is onsite at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA. 

What We Offer:   

• Equity-Based Compensation

• Highly Competitive PTO and Holiday Calendar

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage

• Unique Performance-Based Bonus Structure

ITAR Requirements:  

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here  

Equal Employment Opportunity:  

Space Kinetic provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, disabilityor any other legally protected status. 

The annual base salary for this role is below. Pay Grades are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual pay will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: interviews and an assessment of several factors that are unique to each candidate, job-related skills, relevant education/experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate and internal equity.  

Pay Range

$150,000—$190,000 USD