Senior Space Systems Engineer

Position Title: Senior Space Systems Engineer

Date Reviewed: 01 JUL 2023

Position Type: Regular, Exempt

Rate of Pay: DOE

Position Reports To: Systems Engineering Manager

FTE: 1.0

Supervises Others: Yes ☐ No ☒

Position Summary

Since our inception in 2004, GEOST has been committed to solving mission-critical space domain and ISR challenges for DOD, IC, and commercial customers. Our vision is to revolutionize the space-based payload market with innovative and novel designs for space, terrestrial, and airborne environments. As we grow our operations in Tucson, AZ and Northern VA, we remain dedicated to the collaborative and innovative culture that is the foundation of our business. GEOST is an operating unit of LightRidge Solutions.

GEOST seeks an enthusiastic and highly capable Space Systems Engineer to work with a multi-disciplinary team to design, develop, and test space-based electro-optical sensors.  A qualified candidate will be able to apply engineering best practices to ensure the success of complex missions in pioneering space projects. This position requires a Top Secret security clearance and is expected to spend at least 50% of the time in a classified work environment.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Space Systems Design: Contribute to the design and development of space-based optical instruments, subsystems, and payloads. Collaborate closely with optical, mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to integrate optical systems into space-based platforms.
• Requirements Management: Assist in the definition, allocation, and management of technical requirements for space systems using MBSE models. Ensure traceability of requirements throughout the development process and address potential conflicts or issues.
• Documentation and Reporting: Prepare and maintain technical documentation, including system design descriptions, ICDs, CONOPs, and test plans. Generate technical reports and presentations to communicate findings, progress, and recommendations to internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Mission Assurance: Support project teams in ensuring proper implementation and adherence to Mission Assurance guidance to maintain a high-quality product delivery.
• Systems Development: Support the development and testing of space payloads to be integrated on spacecraft platforms. Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams to ensure seamless integration and functionality of exquisite payloads.
• Risk Management: Identify and analyze potential risks associated with space systems and develop mitigation strategies. Work with the team to develop contingency plans and ensure risk reduction throughout the development lifecycle.
• Performance Analysis: Conduct performance analysis of project missions, including simulations, modeling, and validation. Evaluate system performance, such as power budgets, thermal analysis, communications, and reliability, to ensure compliance with mission objectives.
• Model Development: Support development of analytical models known as “Digital Twins” using common software and languages such as Cameo, MATLAB, Simulink, STK, GMAT, and Python.
• Verification and Validation: Plan and execute verification and validation activities for space systems, including subsystem and system-level testing. Define test procedures, analyze test data, and provide technical recommendations to ensure the robustness and reliability of space systems.
• Industry Knowledge: Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in space systems engineering, emerging technologies, and industry best practices. Continuously expand knowledge and skills to contribute to the company’s competitive edge.

Required Qualifications/Skills/Knowledge

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field. 
• An active TS/SCI with CI poly.
• Demonstrable experience in space systems engineering, with a strong focus on developing and integrating space instruments.
• Familiarity with space industry standards, regulations, and practices.
• Excellent task management skills including the ability to prioritize tasks, manage resources, and deliver results within given constraints.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and present technical information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Desired Qualifications/Skills/Knowledge

• INCOSE ASEP, CSEP, or ESEP certified.
• Proficiency in system modeling and analysis tools such as Cameo, MATLAB, Simulink, or equivalent.
• Experience with optical quality assessment, pointing and radiometric calibration of EO systems.
• Experience in astronomy, physics, or remote-sensing.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.