Systems Engineering Manager Verified today

Umbra · Space Systems · first seen 2026-07-16

About Umbra

Umbra is an American space technology company delivering advanced systems, from sensors to spacecraft, that empower customers worldwide with unmatched access to critical information from space. The Mission Solutions business unit builds platforms purpose-built for U.S. and allied defense and intelligence missions, from custom payloads to full-stack spacecraft and constellation infrastructure.

The Role

You will lead the Mission Solutions Systems Engineering group, overseeing the engineers who architect, design, build, test, and operate advanced satellite and space mission technology. You'll manage mission architects, mission designers, and systems engineers throughout the full program lifecycle from early concept through customer delivery.

You will collaborate with systems, hardware, and software teams and senior technical leadership to drive new technology development while fostering team growth and technical excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Establish and maintain systems engineering technical excellence within Mission Solutions
Lead the systems engineering group through the full program lifecycle
Contribute to and review proposal submissions for technical accuracy
Manage technical staff including one-on-one meetings, performance reviews, career planning, workload allocation, and conflict resolution
Ensure compliance with legal regulations, security standards, and company policies
Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and effectiveness
Collaborate on headcount planning, staffing forecasts, and recruiting
Develop resource estimates for proposals and departmental growth
Apply agile practices to sprint planning, progress tracking, and performance management

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in engineering or related STEM field
8+ years professional experience in systems engineering or related field
3+ years direct personnel management experience
3+ years professional experience in space mission systems engineering
3+ years managing complex technical projects from planning through execution
Demonstrated experience leading engineering teams including hiring, performance management, career development, and accountability for technical quality and schedule
Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills with ability to collaborate across cross-functional teams
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance (U.S. citizenship required)

Desired Qualifications

10+ years professional experience in systems engineering, with 7+ years direct personnel management
5+ years managing complex technical projects from planning through execution
5+ years professional experience in space mission systems engineering
Ability to work effectively in fast-paced, collaborative, dynamic environment
Experience with agile project management practices and tools such as scrum, SAFe, and Jira
Experience with traditional project management practices and tools such as critical path analysis, resource loading, and MS Project
Experience with full program lifecycle including systems engineering, software, and hardware deliverables