System Test Engineer

System Spacecraft Test Engineer$130,000 – $180,000Full-time | On-site | San Jose, CACompany OverviewOur client designs, builds, and operates advanced small satellite systems to support turnkey space missions in Earth observation, communications, in-orbit demonstrations, and exploration. With a collaborative engineering culture and global infrastructure, they are pushing the boundaries of space technology to deliver high-performance systems for both commercial and government customers.Position SummaryWe’re seeking a System Spacecraft Test Engineer to join a hands-on, mission-driven team ensuring spacecraft are ready for launch and on-orbit success. In this role, you’ll develop and execute system test plans, automate test procedures, and perform data analysis on spacecraft hardware. You’ll collaborate with design engineers, project managers, and customers to define test strategies, troubleshoot anomalies, and drive continuous improvement of test operations from subsystem delivery through launch.This is an opportunity to work at the intersection of test engineering, systems integration, and automation on complex, high-reliability spacecraft systems.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop comprehensive system test plans and procedures to verify spacecraft performance from subsystem delivery through launchPerform, automate, and analyze spacecraft system tests; present results and feedback to engineering teamsEnsure test plans meet evolving system requirements and mission characteristicsTroubleshoot anomalous test results, identify defects, and support root-cause resolutionCollect or design necessary support equipment and automate test procedures to improve efficiencyDocument test changes, results, and issues with high attention to detailDrive continuous improvement in test processes while ensuring hardware and personnel safetyMinimum QualificationsB.S. or M.S. in Engineering (Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Software), Math, Physics, or related field5+ years of experience testing complex systems, ideally spacecraft or similarly high-reliability hardwareExperience with RF systemsHigh proficiency in test automation or Python programmingAbility to interpret and follow system documentation accuratelyHands-on experience with hardware testing and diagnostic tools such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, power sources, spectrum analyzers, and modemsStrong communication and collaborative problem-solving skillsU.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency (Green Card) required under export control regulationsPreferred QualificationsFamiliarity with mission assurance practicesExperience with spacecraft manufacturing or high-volume production environmentsBackground in electrical or software designProficiency with Python libraries such as pandas for test data analysisExperience automating tests with spectrum analyzers, power meters, or modems