Mission Integration Engineer - Payload I&T Verified today

About the role

Apex is seeking a Mission Integration Engineer specializing in Payload Integration and Test. You will own the planning and execution of customer payload integration and space vehicle level test campaigns, turning the spacecraft platform into the backbone of customer missions.

Your responsibilities

• Own 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 SV 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 (CLA) 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 and concisely to both technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Participate in customer meetings, design reviews, and project status updates

Requirements

• 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
• U.S. Person status, as this position requires access to export-controlled data

Preferred experience

• 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, etc.)

What we offer

• Equity in Apex
• 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost
• Starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays
• Competitive 401(k) plan: 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
• Complete desk setup and tools for productivity
• World-class Playa Vista office with flexibility to integrate work and life

ITAR requirement

Apex's work is governed by U.S. export control laws, including ITAR and EAR. To be eligible, you must either qualify as a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen or national, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee) or be able to obtain required export authorizations from the U.S. Department of State, Commerce, or another applicable U.S. government agency.