Lead Payload Systems Engineer

Payload System Ownership Lead the technical integration of all payloads (e.g., EO, telecom, hyperspectral, LiDAR, radar, or custom sensor systems) into the flight platform. Define and maintain the payload-to-platform interface requirements (mechanical, electrical, data, thermal, and RF). Ensure payload design meets platform-level performance, safety, and mission requirements.

Lead the technical integration of all payloads (e.g., EO, telecom, hyperspectral, LiDAR, radar, or custom sensor systems) into the flight platform.

Define and maintain the payload-to-platform interface requirements (mechanical, electrical, data, thermal, and RF).

Ensure payload design meets platform-level performance, safety, and mission requirements.

Integration & Verification Develop and execute payload integration, verification, and validation (IV&V) plans for lab, ground, and flight environments. Coordinate payload integration testing — mechanical fit checks, EMI/EMC, thermal-vacuum, vibration, and functional performance. Lead troubleshooting, anomaly resolution, and root-cause analysis during integration and flight test campaigns.

Develop and execute payload integration, verification, and validation (IV&V) plans for lab, ground, and flight environments.

Coordinate payload integration testing — mechanical fit checks, EMI/EMC, thermal-vacuum, vibration, and functional performance.

Lead troubleshooting, anomaly resolution, and root-cause analysis during integration and flight test campaigns.

Cross-Functional Leadership Collaborate closely with Systems Engineering, Avionics, Flight Operations, and Mission Planning teams to ensure seamless payload integration. Act as primary technical interface with payload vendors, ensuring timely delivery and compliance with interface control documents (ICDs). Drive design reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR) for payload subsystems and contribute to platform-level reviews.

Collaborate closely with Systems Engineering, Avionics, Flight Operations, and Mission Planning teams to ensure seamless payload integration.

Act as primary technical interface with payload vendors, ensuring timely delivery and compliance with interface control documents (ICDs).

Drive design reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR) for payload subsystems and contribute to platform-level reviews.

Documentation & Compliance Own and maintain payload-related documentation: interface control documents (ICDs), configuration management, and test reports. Ensure payloads meet applicable aerospace standards and regulatory requirements (FCC, FAA, ITAR/EAR, etc.). Support creation of flight-readiness documentation and mission assurance reviews.

Own and maintain payload-related documentation: interface control documents (ICDs), configuration management, and test reports.

Ensure payloads meet applicable aerospace standards and regulatory requirements (FCC, FAA, ITAR/EAR, etc.).

Support creation of flight-readiness documentation and mission assurance reviews.

Innovation & Continuous Improvement Identify and implement design and process improvements that enhance payload integration efficiency, reduce mass/power budgets, and increase reliability. Contribute to system-level architecture studies for future payload capabilities and missions.

Identify and implement design and process improvements that enhance payload integration efficiency, reduce mass/power budgets, and increase reliability.

Contribute to system-level architecture studies for future payload capabilities and missions.

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Physics, or related field.

10+ years of experience in payload systems design, integration, and operations.

Proven track record managing complex payloads with multiple interfaces and stakeholders.

Deep understanding of systems engineering principles, configuration management, and verification processes.

Experience with CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) and system modeling tools (e.g., DOORS, Cameo, SysML).

Strong understanding of electrical power systems, data buses (Ethernet, SpaceWire, CAN), and RF architectures.

Proven leadership of complex, multi-disciplinary aerospace or satellite projects.

Strong understanding of EO/IR sensors, data processing, and communication payloads.

Experience with systems engineering, verification & validation, and flight operations.

Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills.

Master’s degree or higher in a relevant engineering or scientific discipline.

Experience with HAPS, LEO satellites, UAVs, or high-altitude systems.

Knowledge of FAA and NASA payload integration standards.

Sceye is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, especially those who bring unique perspectives and experiences that can help us grow and innovate. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact us—we’re happy to assist.