Senior Electrical Hardware Engineer (Space Systems)

TL;DR

Senior Electrical Hardware Engineer (Space Systems): Designing and developing electrical systems for spacecraft avionics with an accent on flight computers, power distribution, and communication systems. Focus on schematic capture, PCB layout, and hardware bring-up to enable rapid satellite constellation deployment.

Location: San Jose, CA. Must be a U.S. person (citizen, national, green card holder, refugee, or asylee) per U.S. Government export regulations.

Salary: $186,000 - $202,000

Company

An end-to-end Space Systems Provider that designs, builds, and operates LEO satellite constellations delivering mission-critical Earth Intelligence.

What you will do

• Design electrical systems for spacecraft avionics, including flight computers, power distribution, and sensors.
• Perform schematic capture and PCB layout using professional software.
• Execute bring-up, testing, and validation of newly designed hardware prototypes.
• Collaborate with software and mechanical teams to ensure seamless system integration and manufacturability.
• Create comprehensive design documentation, test procedures, and technical reports.
• Mentor other engineers to improve team capabilities in electrical hardware domain.

Requirements

• 3-8 years of experience in hardware engineering with exposure to electronic systems.
• Expert-level proficiency in PCB layout software such as Altium or Cadence/Orcad.
• Understanding of microcontrollers and communication interfaces (UART, SPI, I2C, CAN, Ethernet).
• Experience with embedded systems, programming concepts, and Linux development environments.
• Strong hands-on problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Legal status: Must be a U.S. person to access export-controlled information.

Nice to have

• Familiarity with environmental testing (vibration, thermal, EMI).
• Python scripting for test automation or data analysis.
• Experience with space-grade power electronics, including GaN switching converters.
• Experience with FPGAs, SoC, or embedded Linux platforms.
• Previous experience working in a startup environment.

Culture & Benefits

• Competitive salary and equity compensation grants.
• Comprehensive health coverage including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401k retirement plan, life insurance, and disability coverage.
• Three weeks of paid vacation, 12 paid holidays, and unlimited sick time.
• Paid parental leave and a commitment to a diverse and inclusive workforce.