Mission Integration Engineer - Payload I&T Verified today

About the Role

Apex is seeking a Mission Integration Engineer specializing in Payload Integration and Test. The Mission Integration team turns our foundational spacecraft platform into the backbone of customer missions. This is a hands-on role owning the planning and execution of customer payload integration and space vehicle level test campaigns.

Responsibilities

• Own the planning of space vehicle I&T campaigns and drive execution on the cleanroom floor
• Work directly with customers to develop bus to payload integration procedures
• Plan and execute space vehicle level environmental testing, including random vibration, quasi-static load, and TVAC
• Plan and execute space vehicle level functional testing to demonstrate integrated vehicle functionality
• Support space vehicle propulsion load operations for dynamic testing and launch
• Review results of coupled loads analysis and thermal analysis for incorporation into test planning
• Travel to launch sites for vehicle integration, system checkouts, and launch rehearsals
• Develop and maintain customer system-level documentation, including specifications, interface control documents, and system design descriptions
• Support requirements analysis, verification, and validation activities to ensure compliance with customer needs and industry standards
• Identify and assess technical risks associated with system design, development, and operation
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including electrical, mechanical, and software engineers, to ensure system integration and performance
• Communicate technical concepts, requirements, and issues clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Participate in customer meetings, design reviews, and project status updates

Requirements

• U.S. Person status, as this position requires access to export-controlled data
• Bachelor's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
• 3 or more years of experience working on complex hardware systems (spacecraft preferred)
• Experience in satellite manufacturing or related industries (aerospace, defense, or high-tech)
• Strong understanding of space systems integration and test
• Experience coordinating cross-functional teams and managing timelines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong communication and organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize and adapt to shifting demands
• High attention to detail with a focus on delivering concise and technical review content

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous spacecraft, launch vehicle, or payload engineering experience
• Experience with CubeSat, small satellite, or rideshare mission integration
• Experience working with prime contractors or government entities
• Familiarity with flight software, embedded systems, and space communications protocols (CCSDS, S-band, X-band)

What We Offer

• Equity in Apex
• 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
• Comprehensive PTO package starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20 or more days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
• Competitive 401(k) plan with 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%
• 8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350 per day for work-related travel
• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks
• Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and family gatherings
• Your choice of desk setup and all tools needed to be productive
• In-person collaboration at Playa Vista office with flexibility to integrate work and life

Compensation is determined by role, level, location, and market data alignment. Full-time hires are eligible for long-term incentives in the form of stock options.