Mission Integration Engineer - Payload I&T

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.

For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.

Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.

We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.

Apex is seeking a Mission Integration Engineer specializing in Payload Integration & Test to join our expanding team. The Mission Integration team turns our foundational spacecraft platform into the backbone of customer missions. It is a hands-on role owning the planning and execution of customer payload integration and SV level test campaigns.

• Own the planning of space vehicle I&T campaigns and drive execution on the cleanroom floor.

• Work directly with customers to develop bus to payload integration procedures.

• Plan and execute space vehicle level environmental testing, including random vibration, quasi-static load, and TVAC.

• Plan and execute SV level functional testing to demonstrate integrated vehicle functionality.

• Support space vehicle propulsion load operations for dynamic testing and launch.

• Review results of coupled loads analysis (CLA) and thermal analysis for incorporation into test planning.

• Travel to launch sites for vehicle integration, system checkouts, and launch rehearsals.

• Develop and maintain customer system-level documentation, including specifications, interface control documents, and system design descriptions.

• Support requirements analysis, verification, and validation activities to ensure compliance with customer needs and industry standards.

• Identify and assess technical risks associated with system design, development, and operation.

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including electrical, mechanical, and software engineers, to ensure system integration and performance.

• Communicate technical concepts, requirements, and issues clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

• Participate in customer meetings, design reviews, and project status updates.

• U.S. Person status, as this position needs access to export-controlled data.

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.

• 3+ years of experience working on complex hardware systems (spacecraft preferred).

• Experience in satellite manufacturing or related industries (aerospace, defense, or high-tech).

• Strong understanding of space systems integration and test.

• Experience coordinating cross-functional teams and managing timelines in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong communication and organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize and adapt to shifting demands.

• High attention to detail with a focus on delivering concise and technical review content.

• Previous spacecraft, launch vehicle, or payload engineering experience.

• Experience with Cube Sat, small satellite, or rideshare mission integration.

• Experience working with prime contractors or government entities.

• Familiarity with flight software, embedded systems, and space communications protocols (CCSDS, S-band, X-band, etc.).

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Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup that has raised more than $500M in funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.

• Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create

• Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost

• Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays

• Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%

• 8 weeks paid parental…