Chief Engineer (Aerospace)

TL;DR

Chief Engineer (Aerospace): Leading the technical strategy, design, and full life-cycle development of in-space transportation vehicles with an accent on systems engineering, technical integrity, and mission success. Focus on managing complex engineering roadmaps, driving cross-functional collaboration, and ensuring compliance with aerospace standards for high-stakes space missions.

Location: Must be based in San Jose, CA, United States

Salary: $275,000 - $325,000 per year

Company

hirify.global is a commercial space company developing cost-effective and energy-efficient in-space transportation and infrastructure services.

What you will do

• Manage technical integrity and the technical baseline for all space vehicle programs.
• Act as the independent technical authority for design, requirements, and risk assessments.
• Provide engineering leadership and mentorship across design, analysis, and systems engineering processes.
• Collaborate with program leadership to define technology roadmaps and ensure alignment with product needs.
• Oversee technical aspects of projects through gate reviews, ensuring appropriate testing and validation.
• Represent the company and project with key customers and partners.

Requirements

• 15+ years of relevant experience in full life-cycle development of spacecraft.
• BS, MS, or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering or a related discipline.
• Must be a U.S. citizen, legal permanent resident, or protected person due to export control requirements.
• Strong experience with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and complex engineering systems.
• Demonstrated ability to lead design, production, and integration of complex aerospace systems.
• Excellent communication skills with experience in high-value customer presentations.

Nice to have

• Subject Matter Expert (SME) experience in inertial measurement systems, Kalman filtering, and instrument error modeling.
• Previous experience working on DoD and other USG development programs.
• Ability to hold and maintain a USG Security Clearance.
• Expert knowledge in high-fidelity aerospace vehicle control and dynamics.

Culture & Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401k retirement plan with company contributions.
• Flexible PTO, 11 paid holidays, and paid parental leave.
• Short and long-term disability and life insurance.
• Opportunity to work on innovative technology creating entirely new markets in the space economy.