AstroTalentSpace Jobs

Lead Launch Engineer Verified today

Apex Spacecraft · Los Angeles, CA · Space Systems · first seen 2026-09-23
Apply at Apex Spacecraft →

About Apex Spacecraft

Apex manufactures satellite buses at scale for commercial payloads using software, vertical integration, and hardware designed for manufacturing efficiency. These platforms enable earth observation, communications, and other applications, launching on a growing range of vehicles.

The Role

You will own complex spacecraft missions and serve as the primary technical liaison between internal teams and launch providers. This is a hybrid position: roughly 50% management (mentoring, directing the launch engineering team, setting companywide integration processes) and 50% individual contributor work (solving launch integration challenges, technical execution).

Your Responsibilities

  • Manage and coordinate integration of satellite payloads with various launch vehicles, including propulsion loading and separation system integration
  • Work closely 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 across mechanical, electrical, and environmental interfaces
  • Support environmental testing (vibration, thermal vacuum, EMI/EMC) to validate satellite 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
  • Provide real-time technical support during launch campaigns, including anomaly resolution
  • Collaborate with mechanical, avionics, and systems engineers to optimize satellite integration processes

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
  • At least 7 years of experience in spacecraft/launch vehicle integration, mission integration, or launch operations
  • Experience working with launch vehicle providers
  • Previous launch campaign ownership
  • Hands-on experience with satellite testing, integration, and environmental qualification
  • Proven track record of managing complex projects with multiple interdependent tasks
  • U.S. Person status (required to access export controlled data)

Preferred Qualifications

  • Leadership experience in satellite manufacturing or related industry (aerospace, defense, high-tech)
  • Experience mentoring or directing an engineering team
  • Familiarity with AFSPCMAN 91-710 submittal processes
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and office productivity tools

What Apex Offers

  • Equity in Apex
  • 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and dependents, plus $100k life insurance
  • Starting at 15 days vacation, 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, family gatherings
  • Tools and equipment for productivity
  • Playa Vista office location with flexibility for work-life integration

Export Control

This role requires U.S. Person status or ability to obtain required export authorizations. Apex's work is governed by ITAR and EAR regulations.