Launch Engineer - Avionics Integration & Test Verified today
About the role
Reusable launch systems depend on highly operable, reliable ground operations. As Launch Avionics Integration and Test Engineer, you will own Nova stage integrated avionics systems from receipt through launch operations at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station LC-14.
You will integrate all avionics flight hardware in the launch hangar, develop electrical ground support equipment, and define integration and test sequences. This role requires understanding electrical, mechanical, and software interfaces across the vehicle. You will work with avionics, fluids, structures, software, and manufacturing teams to solve integration problems early and streamline launch site operations.
Responsibilities
- Own Nova stage integrated avionics systems from receipt, tests, checks, integration, and through launch operations
- Develop a complete understanding of mechanical, electrical, and software interfaces necessary to integrate and operate the launch vehicle
- Develop electrical ground support equipment systems and integration and test plans for the complete stage and engine avionics system
- Plan, author, and execute system integration and vehicle checkout tests and sequences at the launch site
- Facilitate hardware-in-the-loop test solutions to validate vehicle configurations and develop continuous integration test objectives
- Coordinate with component owners and software engineering to identify and correct integration issues early
- Troubleshoot electrical hardware issues on the Nova vehicle and coordinate corrective actions with component owners
- Develop day of flight procedures and sequences for battery charging, avionics health checking, vehicle launch and recovery
- Support integrated stage and hot fire testing at Cape Canaveral
- Operate the vehicle avionics system through day of launch and recovery
Qualifications
- B.S. degree in electrical engineering, electronics engineering, mechatronics engineering, or related computer or engineering degree
- 5 or more years of experience in a related role working on avionics, electrical, or flight termination systems for launch vehicles or ground support equipment
- Practical and theoretical knowledge of electrical design, integration, and testing
- Proficient creating and implementing procedures and automated test sequences
- Experienced in design and building ground support or automation equipment for vehicle power-up, testing, and validation of launch vehicle systems
- Strong electrical engineering and RF fundamentals
- Ability to diagnose and resolve issues with electrical systems, instrumentation systems, and control systems
- Hands-on experience with multimeters, clamp meters, oscilloscopes, megohmmeters, ground resistance testers, and loop impedance testers
- Proficient with 2D CAD software and Microsoft Office including Excel, Word, and Visio
- Willing and able to travel and work in various environments (indoor, outdoor, marine)
- Excellent written and verbal communication
- Ability to pass USSF background check for Cape Canaveral Space Force Station
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in integration, test, and operations of complex multidisciplinary systems such as launch vehicles, satellites, aircraft or automotive
- Avionics and GNC hardware in the loop simulation experience
- Experience developing assembly work plans and instructions for mechanical integration of avionics components and harnessing
- Environmental test experience
- Experience with Python, Rust, LabVIEW, LabJack, UEI, or National Instruments hardware
- Familiarity with lab equipment for development testing of circuits and components
- Familiarity with AFSPCMAN 91-710 range requirements and DoD explosive siting for launch vehicle flight termination systems
- Experience working with 45th SW, 30th SW, NASA or other government agencies
Compensation
Target salary ranges (based on experience level):
- Level 2: $104,500 to $141,400
- Level 3: $123,000 to $184,400
- Level 4: $144,100 to $240,100
Your actual level and base salary will be determined based on your specific experience and skill level.
Benefits
- Equity in the form of stock options for all regular, full-time employees
- Comprehensive benefits including subsidized medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Company-paid life and disability insurance
- 401(k) plan with employer match
- 4 weeks paid time off
- 10 paid holidays (including end-of-year closure)
- Paid family and parental leave
- On-site gym or monthly wellness stipend depending on location
Requirements
You must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State to comply with ITAR export control regulations. You must be willing to relocate to Cape Canaveral, FL.
Employment is contingent on satisfactory completion of background checks and ability to pass USSF background check for Cape Canaveral Space Force Station.
