Instrument Systems Engineer , Space Sciences Laboratory

Position Summary

This position requires an instrument systems engineer to lead the development of spaceflight remote sensing instrumentation within UC Berkeley’s Space Sciences Laboratory (SSL). The position involves providing systems engineering support in the design, assembly, and test of scientific instruments and payload systems (primarily spaceborne cameras, spectrographs, telescopes, and detector systems). Collaborative activities include frequent interaction with SSL’s remote sensing engineering staff and project management to meet science requirements while maintaining engineering integrity throughout the project’s lifecycle.

• Lead the development effort for instrument design, supporting analyses, construction planning, assembly, and testing.
• Collaborate with technical management and science leadership to develop a comprehensive set of instrument performance requirements as well as execute verification activities (e.g., environmental testing).

• Plan, organize, and supervise lower‑level engineers and technical staff engaged in design, construction, and testing of space flight instruments.
• Develop plans and procedures required to assemble, test, and calibrate remote sensing instrumentation.

• Ensure effective design and integration of all components and engineering fields such as mechanical.
• Verify that the instrument design meets critical requirements and can achieve desired performance specifications.

• Work with other research organizations in the development of components for remote sensing instrumentation.

• Integrate the activities of multiple sub‑specialties of one of the Aerospace Engineering disciplines or covering several engineering specialties.
• Lead the assembly and integration of a spaceflight instrument or large ground‑based instrument (>$20M).

• Carry major responsibility for accomplishment of research objectives in relationships with investigators, contractors, and campus staff.

• Work with project management in meeting technical requirements within schedule and budget.
• Revise the design and verification as needed.
• Provide all design and verification data to project leadership for integration to the spacecraft.
• May lead a team of lower‑level professional engineers and technicians.

• Other duties as assigned.

• Advanced skills in the planning, development, and construction of space systems, including one successful complex space project from concept development through launch.
• Experience in instrument systems engineering, particularly in development of assembly and test plans/procedures for remote sensing instruments.
• Advanced systems knowledge to effectively integrate multiple engineering fields.
• Responsible for integration and test of a space flight instrument or facility class ground‑based instrument.
• Skills in project management including organization, planning, quality assurance and scheduling.
• Ability to communicate verbally and in writing effectively.
• Ability to interface with various institutions and disciplines to accomplish project goals and meet requirements.
• Skills in supervising staff and establishing work objectives.

• Preferable experience supporting either a NASA explorers class mission, or a facility class instrument for a large ground‑based observatory.
• Specialist in two engineering disciplines preferred.
• Post‑graduate level course work in related area preferred.

The budgeted annual salary range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $ - $.

This is an exempt, monthly‑paid position.

This is a full‑time (40 hours/week) career position eligible for full UC benefits.

To apply, submit your resume and cover letter.

• This position is not a visa opportunity. It does not include sponsorship of a new consular H‑1B visa petition that would require…