Position: Spacecraft Systems Engineer – Quantum Space
Location: Rockville, MDCommitment: Full-time, all-inWho We’re Looking ForQuantum Space is leading the way in space mobility, building high-autonomy, long-duration spacecraft to extend humanity’s reach beyond Earth orbit. We’re seeking a Spacecraft Systems Engineer to architect, integrate, and lead the development of spaceflight systems from concept to launch—and beyond.In this role, you will work cradle-to-grave on spacecraft programs, taking ownership from initial requirements definition through detailed design, integration, testing, and mission operations.
You’ll develop technical budgets, drive system-level trades, coordinate across disciplines, and ensure system-level performance and verification for flight missions across civil, commercial, and national security sectors.Where You’ll Make an ImpactSystem Engineering Leadership
- Develop and maintain spacecraft system requirements, interface definitions, performance budgets, and CONOPS.
- Lead architecture development, mission analysis, and design trades to optimize system performance across subsystems.
- Coordinate system-level technical execution, including flow-down to subsystem teams, schedule planning, and risk management.
- Serve as the technical lead through all lifecycle phases—from early design through I&T and into mission ops.
Verification, Test, and Integration
- Own the system verification plan: establish requirements traceability, define verification methods, and drive end-to-end V&V.
- Support environmental test planning and execution, including thermal-vacuum, vibration, shock, and integrated functional testing.
- Analyze test data and correlate system models to flight and ground results.
- Lead resolution of integration and test anomalies, including system-level troubleshooting and corrective action planning.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Interface with GNC, thermal, propulsion, avionics, comms, software, and payload teams to deliver integrated system solutions.
- Collaborate with program management, mission ops, and customers to align technical development with program goals.
- Contribute to proposal writing, technical reviews, and customer-facing documentation.
What It Takes
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace, Systems, Electrical, Mechanical, or a related engineering field.
- 8-10+ years of experience/education supporting spacecraft or satellite development programs.
- Proven experience in system architecture, technical budgeting, and requirements definition.
- Strong understanding of key spacecraft subsystems: ADCS, EPS, thermal, C&DH, comms, and propulsion.
- Hands-on experience with system integration and environmental testing.
- Experience supporting spaceflight programs across their full lifecycle—from early concept to on-orbit operations.
- Familiarity with MATLAB, Python, or STK for analysis and simulation.
- Experience with requirements management tools (e.g., DOORS, JAMA, or equivalent).
- Excellent communication and documentation skills with the ability to drive technical discussions across diverse teams.
Nice-to-Have Experience
- Experience supporting deep space, GEO, or cislunar missions.
- Prior involvement in satellite operations or hardware-in-the-loop testing.
- Experience with fault management and spacecraft autonomy systems.
- Background in rapid development or responsive space programs.
What You’ll Get
- Ownership – Drive the technical development of Quantum’s spacecraft systems.
- Innovation – Help define system architectures for next-generation space missions.
- Impact – Deliver critical platforms that support scientific, civil, and national security space objectives.
- Growth – Be a leader on a mission-driven, high-performance engineering team.
- Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and top-tier benefits, including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, FSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharing.
Additional RequirementsTo conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.Apply now. Join us in building spacecraft systems that push the boundaries of space operations.
