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Launch Engineer Verified today

Apex Spacecraft · Los Angeles, CA · Space Systems · first seen 2026-07-16
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About the Role

Apex manufactures satellite buses at scale, combining software, vertical integration, and manufacturing-focused hardware. These platforms carry customer payloads to orbit across earth observation, communications, and beyond.

You will join as Launch Engineer, owning complex launch projects and serving as the primary liaison between internal teams and launch providers. You will lead launch campaigns and establish company-wide processes to ensure reliable vehicle launches.

Your Responsibilities

  • Manage and coordinate integration of satellite payloads with various launch vehicles
  • Work with launch providers to define mission requirements, interfaces, and integration schedules
  • Develop and maintain satellite launch plans, procedures, and readiness reviews
  • Oversee satellite transportation, handling, and pre-launch processing at launch sites
  • Ensure compatibility between satellite and launch vehicle (mechanical, electrical, environmental interfaces)
  • Support environmental testing including vibration, thermal vacuum, and EMI/EMC to validate launch readiness
  • Conduct system-level checkouts and troubleshooting during pre-launch and countdown operations
  • Interface with regulatory agencies to secure launch approvals and compliance with international spaceflight standards; familiarity with AFSPCMAN 91-710 submittal processes required
  • Provide real-time technical support during launch campaigns, including anomaly resolution
  • Collaborate with mechanical, avionics, and systems engineers to optimize satellite integration processes

What You Need

  • U.S. Person status required to access export controlled data
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
  • At least 5 years of experience in production scheduling, preferably in manufacturing or aerospace
  • Experience in satellite manufacturing or related industries (aerospace, defense, high-tech) strongly preferred
  • Experience working with launch vehicle providers
  • Previous launch campaign ownership
  • Hands-on experience with satellite testing, integration, and environmental qualification
  • Proven track record managing complex projects with multiple interdependent tasks
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and office productivity tools
  • Experience coordinating cross-functional teams and managing timelines in fast-paced environments
  • Strong organizational and multitasking abilities with ability to prioritize and adapt to changing demands
  • Strong interpersonal skills for effective collaboration across teams
  • High attention to detail with focus on technical accuracy of launch regulatory documents
  • Ability to work in dynamic, fast-changing environment with shifting priorities and deadlines

What Apex Offers (Full-time)

  • Equity in Apex
  • 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
  • 15 days vacation starting, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
  • 401(k) plan with 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
  • 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel
  • Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks
  • Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and family gatherings
  • Desk setup and productivity tools
  • Playa Vista office with in-person collaboration and work-life flexibility

Apex is open to considering candidates across multiple experience levels; if this opportunity interests you but the posted range does not fully align with expectations, you are encouraged to apply.