Principal Satellite Engineer

Principal ATLO EngineerLocation: El Segundo, California, Onsite Active TS/SCI RequiredDarwin Space are partnered with an exciting national security space company who are building high performance small satellites for critical U.S. government missions. They are looking for a Principal Engineer to lead spacecraft assembly, test and launch operations across multiple satellite programs.This is a true superstar role for an engineer who has built real spacecraft end to end, ideally across two or three different spacecraft types. They are seeking someone who is equally strong leading teams and working hands on in the cleanroom, integrating hardware, running environmental test campaigns and preparing vehicles for launch. This is not an IC role, but it is also not purely managerial. It is a 50 percent hands on, 50 percent leadership position.They need someone who understands small satellite production, high rate builds, and has spent significant time owning hardware integration, test execution and troubleshooting across spacecraft programs.Role OverviewThe Principal Engineer will lead spacecraft level assembly, test and launch operations for multiple programs, shaping production flows, driving integration schedules and ensuring vehicles meet mission requirements. You will work hands on in the cleanroom performing integration and system level testing while also guiding engineers, reviewing designs, resolving major discrepancies and supporting mission readiness reviews.This role influences process development, production strategy, proposal inputs, test planning and the integration of new designs into the production environment. It is a technical leadership position that demands deep spacecraft experience, strong judgment and the ability to oversee complex end to end build flows.Key ResponsibilitiesSpacecraft Assembly and IntegrationLead planning and execution of spacecraft build from hardware arrival through final integrationOversee integration of avionics, structures, propulsion interfaces, harnessing and mechanical assembliesWork hands on with hardware in cleanroom environmentsEnvironmental and System TestingServe as subject matter expert for EMI, TVAC, vibration, shock and end stage satellite testingLead troubleshooting during environmental campaigns and system level testsSupport Failure Review Boards and resolve critical non conformancesLaunch IntegrationSupport preparation for launch site activitiesOversee integration to launch vehicles and end to end readiness tasksCoordinate with mission partners and launch providersProduction LeadershipShape production processes for high rate satellite buildsImprove throughput, reduce build hours and eliminate wasteImplement design for testability and manufacturability improvementsTechnical Leadership and Process DevelopmentMentor ATLO and integration engineersAct as signature authority for quality system updates and design reviewsSupport proposals, documentation, SOP development and long term roadmap alignmentRequired QualificationsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldFifteen or more years of experience in spacecraft manufacturing, mechanical, electrical, test or process engineeringExperience working on constellation spacecraft or multiple production vehicles (three or more units)Proficiency with statistics, data analysis, PowerBI or TableauExperience with MRP/ERP, Jira, MS Project, MES systems, Teamcenter or PLM toolsExpertise in one or more areas: medium rate production, mechanical integration, electrical testing, spacecraft integration, industrial operations or systems engineeringActive TS/SCI clearance requiredUS Citizenship requiredPreferred QualificationsTwenty or more years of experience in space systemsStrong written and verbal communication skillsExperience working with union represented techniciansWillingness to travel to launch sites and support critical mission milestonesAbility to work rotating shiftsCompensation and BenefitsCompetitive variable compensationComprehensive health, dental and vision benefitsFlexible spending and health savings accountsRetirement savings plansPaid time off and 9/80 schedule Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.