Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Who We’re Looking ForQuantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in orbit. Our high-delta-V spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions where propulsion capability and rapid execution matter.We are hiring a Spacecraft Systems Engineer to serve as a technical owner across spacecraft development, from early mission architecture through flight delivery. This is not a paperwork-only systems role. You will operate as a program technical lead, driving requirements, interfaces, design maturity, and verification across propulsion, structures, avionics, software, and mission operations.We are looking for someone deeply technical, systems-minded, hardware-grounded, and comfortable leading multidisciplinary teams through high-stakes design reviews.Where You’ll Make an ImpactOwn spacecraft-level technical execution across concept, design, integration, and flight readinessLead end-to-end system architecture, requirements, and interface control across all subsystemsDrive major trade studies (propulsion, power, mass, mission design, payload integration) with clear engineering judgmentServe as a key technical interface to customers, government stakeholders, and mission partnersLead internal and external reviews including SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, and FRREstablish and enforce verification and validation strategy for both hardware and flight softwareSupport hands-on spacecraft assembly, integration, environmental test, and launch campaign readinessMentor engineers and raise the bar on technical rigor, execution speed, and engineering standardsWhat It Takes B.S. in Aerospace or Electrical Engineering, Physics, or similar field (M.S. preferred)3 to 12 years of spacecraft systems engineering experience on flight or flight-like hardwareDemonstrated ownership of spacecraft-level requirements, architecture, and subsystem integrationExperience leading technical execution through at least one major milestone (PDR or beyond)Strong understanding of spacecraft subsystems, especially propulsion, structures, avionics, and GNC interfacesAbility to operate as a technical authority in a fast-moving, build-and-fly environmentExcellent communication skills, able to lead engineers, brief executives, and interface with customersNice-to-Have ExperienceFormer Lead Systems Engineer, or technical lead for a spacecraft programExperience with DoD space programs, or national security missionsDeep background in spacecraft propulsion systems and high-delta-V mission designHands-on experience supporting integration, environmental test, and flight operationsFamiliarity with mission assurance, risk management, and technical standards enforcementActive clearance or eligibility is a plusTools and Technical BreadthRequirements and configuration tools (Jama, DOORS, JIRA, Confluence)CAD familiarity (Creo or SolidWorks) and strong engineering intuition across thermal, structural, and fluids domainsMission analysis and engineering programming skills (Python or MATLAB) strongly valuedWhat You'll GetBuild spacecraft that actually fly, rapidly and repeatedlyOwn real technical authority, not just processWork with a team pushing the frontier of high-mobility space logisticsCompetitive compensation, equity, and top-tier benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharingLocation: Rockville, MD or Hawthorne, CABase Salary: $110,000 to $220,000Additional RequirementsTo comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.