Chief Engineer

Chief Engineer – Space Systems

United States

What would you build if you had the authority to shape a space system from mission concept through delivery?

We’re working with a growing space technology business looking for a Chief Engineer to lead the technical direction of its next generation of space systems. This is a chance to take ownership of the whole solution: defining the architecture, setting performance requirements, guiding subsystem teams, and making the decisions that determine whether the mission succeeds.

The organisation is expanding beyond individual payloads into complete space vehicles and a broader range of products. You’ll join at a point where engineering leaders can influence how programs are built and how the engineering organisation grows. The challenge is to establish rigorous standards and sound processes while keeping teams able to move quickly.

• Own technical direction from mission design and system architecture through integration, verification, and delivery.
• Set system level requirements, interfaces, and performance targets.
• Work with Systems Engineers and subsystem experts to evaluate tradeoffs and resolve technical risks across disciplines.
• Lead major technical reviews and judge whether the system is ready to progress.
• Partner closely with program leadership and act as a senior technical voice with customers.

You won’t need to be the deepest expert in every subsystem. You will need the judgment to see how they fit together, ask the right questions, and make sound decisions when priorities compete.

You’ve led complex aerospace or space programs in a Chief Engineer, Lead Systems Engineer, or comparable technical authority role. You’re comfortable taking responsibility for system performance, technical risk, and verification across multiple disciplines.

Strong radar systems expertise is essential; SAR experience is particularly valuable. We’re open to candidates from both established aerospace organisations and newer space companies. What matters most is your technical depth, system level judgment, and ability to bring experts together around a workable solution.

This role can potentially be based in California or Virginia
, with hybrid arrangements available. Remote candidates may also be considered depending on the individual and the needs of the role.

If you’re ready to own the technical outcome of an ambitious space program—and help shape the engineering capability behind future programs, we’d like to hear from you.