Principal Test Development Engineer

Principal Test Development Engineer

We are at the forefront of space-based intelligence, providing satellite imagery, automated analytics, and high-frequency monitoring to address global strategic, economic, and security challenges. Our team is committed to delivering critical insights to our clients, enabling them to act swiftly and strategically. We pride ourselves on a people-first, customer-focused, and fun work environment.

• Transition satellite tests from engineer-driven 'new product' tests to routine, automated, efficient test processes.
• Lead the development of end-to-end satellite qualification and acceptance test plans.
• Develop production test strategies, plans, procedures, automation, and supporting Ground Support Equipment (GSE).
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Systems Engineering, Production AI&T, and spacecraft subsystem teams.
• Ensure reliable and repeatable high-rate satellite production.
• Transform early, engineering-driven test approaches into mature, production-ready systems.

• 12 years of experience in spacecraft integration and test, development, or similar hardware test environments.
• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience leading multiple spacecraft or launch vehicle build and test campaigns.
• Hands-on experience with spacecraft system test procedures, automation, and execution.
• Proficiency in scripting/coding for automating satellite testing.
• Strong understanding of spacecraft AIT principles, including test-as-you-fly, NASA and DoD standards.
• Experience with ground support equipment and Python.

• Background in high-rate production environments or programs with repeated test execution.
• Extensive experience with spacecraft Ground Support Equipment (GSE) design, build, and validation.
• Experience developing and validating test automation and data processing code in Python.
• Experience in introducing test campaigns for new products and maturing them over time.
• Comfort with using tools for requirement and verification tracking.

This position is based in our Tukwila, WA office, where you will work in an office environment. The role involves collaboration with a global team, utilizing cutting-edge technology to make a worldwide impact.

This is a Permanent position based out of Tukwila, WA.

The pay range for this position is $170000.00 - $230000.00/yr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Medical, dental, vision, disability, group term life and AD&D, voluntary life and AD&D insurance Black Sky pays 100% of employee-only premiums for medical, dental and vision and contributes $100/month for out-of-pocket expenses! 15 days of PTO, 11 Company holidays, four Floating Holidays (pro-rated based on hire date), one day of paid volunteerism leave per year, parental leave and more 401(k) pre-tax and Roth deferral options with employer match Flexible Spending Accounts Employee Stock Purchase Program Employee Assistance and Travel Assistance Programs Employer matching donations Professional development Awesome swag

This is a hybrid position in Tukwila,WA.

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 4, 2026.