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Senior Mission Integration Engineer - Payload I&T Verified today

Apex Spacecraft · Los Angeles, CA · Production · first seen 2026-10-10
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About the Role

Apex is seeking a Senior Mission Integration Engineer specializing in Payload Integration & 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

  • Lead the planning of space vehicle I&T campaigns and drive execution on the cleanroom floor
  • Lead customer technical engagements 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
  • Lead 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 to 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
  • 8+ 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

  • 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
  • Comprehensive PTO package starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ 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/day for work-related travel
  • Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks
  • Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and family gatherings
  • Your dream desk setup and all tools needed to be productive

Compensation is set by role, level, location, and market data alignment. Your specific level and base pay are determined case by case based on job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities, and internal equity. Full-time hires are eligible for stock options and 401(k) retirement plan.