Demo

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Quantum Space
Rockville, MD Full Time
POSTED ON 3/14/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 7/11/2026

Who We’re Looking For


Quantum Space is leading the way in space mobility, building high-autonomy, long-duration spacecraft to extend humanity’s reach beyond Earth orbit. We’re seeking a Spacecraft Systems Engineer to architect, integrate, and lead the development of spaceflight systems from concept to launch—and beyond.

In this role, you will work cradle-to-grave on spacecraft programs, taking ownership from initial requirements definition through detailed design, integration, testing, and mission operations. You’ll develop technical budgets, drive system-level trades, coordinate across disciplines, and ensure system-level performance and verification for flight missions across civil, commercial, and national security sectors.


Where You’ll Make an Impact


System Engineering Leadership

  • Develop and maintain spacecraft system requirements, interface definitions, performance budgets, and CONOPS.
  • Lead architecture development, mission analysis, and design trades to optimize system performance across subsystems.
  • Coordinate system-level technical execution, including flow-down to subsystem teams, schedule planning, and risk management.
  • Serve as the technical lead through all lifecycle phases—from early design through I&T and into mission ops.

Verification, Test, and Integration

  • Own the system verification plan: establish requirements traceability, define verification methods, and drive end-to-end V&V.
  • Support environmental test planning and execution, including thermal-vacuum, vibration, shock, and integrated functional testing.
  • Analyze test data and correlate system models to flight and ground results.
  • Lead resolution of integration and test anomalies, including system-level troubleshooting and corrective action planning.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Interface with GNC, thermal, propulsion, avionics, comms, software, and payload teams to deliver integrated system solutions.
  • Collaborate with program management, mission ops, and customers to align technical development with program goals.
  • Contribute to proposal writing, technical reviews, and customer-facing documentation.


What It Takes


  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace, Systems, Electrical, Mechanical, or a related engineering field.
  • 8-10 years of experience/education supporting spacecraft or satellite development programs.
  • Proven experience in system architecture, technical budgeting, and requirements definition.
  • Strong understanding of key spacecraft subsystems: ADCS, EPS, thermal, C&DH, comms, and propulsion.
  • Hands-on experience with system integration and environmental testing.
  • Experience supporting spaceflight programs across their full lifecycle—from early concept to on-orbit operations.
  • Familiarity with MATLAB, Python, or STK for analysis and simulation.
  • Experience with requirements management tools (e.g., DOORS, JAMA, or equivalent).
  • Excellent communication and documentation skills with the ability to drive technical discussions across diverse teams.


Nice-to-Have Experience


  • Experience supporting deep space, GEO, or cislunar missions.
  • Prior involvement in satellite operations or hardware-in-the-loop testing.
  • Experience with fault management and spacecraft autonomy systems.
  • Background in rapid development or responsive space programs.


What You’ll Get

  • Ownership – Drive the technical development of Quantum’s spacecraft systems.
  • Innovation – Help define system architectures for next-generation space missions.
  • Impact – Deliver critical platforms that support scientific, civil, and national security space objectives.
  • Growth – Be a leader on a mission-driven, high-performance engineering team.
  • Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and top-tier benefits, including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, FSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharing.


Additional Requirements


To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.


Apply now. Join us in building spacecraft systems that push the boundaries of space operations.

Salary : $125,000 - $175,000

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