Head of System Engineering (Satellite/Aerospace)

TL;DR

Head of System Engineering (Satellite/Aerospace): Leading the system engineering team to drive end-to-end architecture for next-generation software-defined satellite platforms with an accent on requirements integrity and technical coordination across domains. Focus on establishing system engineering processes, managing mass/power budgets, and leading V&V activities for LEO/GEO missions.

Location: HQ in Helsinki, Finland; subsidiaries in Bristol, UK and Bariloche, Argentina. Relocation support to Finland provided.

Company

hirify.global builds software-defined, interconnected satellite platforms to transform space applications and improve mission efficiency through a flexible, network-centric architecture.

What you will do

• Lead system engineering across space and ground segments, ensuring a consistent end-to-end architectural approach.
• Own and maintain requirements integrity from customer needs through system, subsystem, and verification levels.
• Manage system budgets for mass, power, data rate, and performance margins throughout the lifecycle.
• Drive coordination and alignment across Payload, AOCS, Propulsion, Flight Software, AIT, and Operations.
• Establish system engineering processes, workflows, and standards for distributed teams.
• Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing system engineering team across multiple locations.

Requirements

• Proven leadership of system engineering teams on multiple spacecraft programs that successfully reached orbit.
• Experience across the full lifecycle from early design through in-orbit validation for LEO/GEO missions.
• Hands-on experience applying ECSS-E-ST-10C and related ECSS standards in real projects.
• Practical familiarity with the NASA Systems Engineering Handbook (SP-6105).
• Experience leading system-level V&V and IV&V activities.
• Production-oriented mindset with a focus on scalability and delivery.

Culture & Benefits

• Challenging environment with a focus on innovation, humility, and curiosity.
• Ambitious network of experts from both classic and new space industries.
• Practical benefits including lunch vouchers, occupational health care, and additional health insurance.
• Dynamic team culture with events, parties, and social activities like ping pong and board games.
• Relocation and integration support into Finnish society.