Senior Data & Control Systems Engineer

About the role

You will design, build, and integrate hardware for data and control systems at our Long Beach facilities to support the Terran R launch program. This role demands a hands-on engineer who is comfortable translating software requirements into robust electrical and mechanical solutions. You will own the development of electrical infrastructure that bridges the gap between software control logic and physical test systems. A significant portion of your work will involve creating interfaces that are intuitive enough for non-electrical engineers to operate safely and effectively. You will be responsible for ensuring that data flows reliably from sensors through to the control systems that monitor every aspect of a test fire. This position requires a methodical approach to building portable data setups that can be rapidly configured for different test objectives. You will also lead the design of large-scale motion control cabinets that manage high voltage applications and complex wiring harnesses. Ultimately, your work will directly enable the factory test team to validate rocket components before they ever reach the launch pad.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Architect the physical electrical infrastructure that supports the integration and testing of rocket hardware in a factory environment.
• Engineer low voltage control and instrumentation systems with a focus on accessibility, ensuring that operators without an electrical background can interact with the hardware.
• Design high voltage applications and develop training materials that allow non-specialists to safely manage and operate high energy systems.
• Partner closely with technicians to construct, test, and troubleshoot hardware solutions, turning schematic diagrams into functional test stands.
• Lead cross-functional initiatives that involve test planning, operational procedures, and the integration of data acquisition systems.
• Develop and maintain portable data systems that can be transported and set up quickly for various test configurations and environmental conditions.
• Create motor and pump control cabinets that integrate AC/DC power distribution with precise motion control to simulate real launch scenarios.
• Implement wiring harnesses and signal routing schemes that organize complex electrical connections and simplify troubleshooting efforts.
• Utilize PCB design skills for signal routing and power management to ensure that data integrity is preserved across critical test systems.
• Integrate communication protocols such as SPI, Ethernet, EtherCAT, CAN, and Modbus to allow disparate systems to share data seamlessly.

Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a closely related technical field that provides a foundation in electronics and systems design.
• Bring 5+ years of professional experience in the development, activation, and troubleshooting of electrical systems used in industrial or test environments.
• Demonstrate a deep proficiency in electrical engineering fundamentals, including circuit analysis, Ohm's law, and power distribution.
• Show concrete experience with high voltage DC electronics design and implementation, including safety considerations and isolation techniques.
• Prove your ability to identify potential risks within complex hardware systems and devise mitigation strategies before issues escalate.
• Exhibit strong problem-solving skills when dealing with intermittent faults in data acquisition and control systems.
• Display competence in reading and interpreting electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical datasheets.
• Clarify that no prior aerospace background is required, but a passion for learning the industry is essential.

Nice to have

• Familiarity with SCADA, PLCs, NI, or Beckhoff systems that can streamline the automation of test sequences.
• Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for creating scripts that automate data analysis and visualization.
• Experience with Altium or similar tools for schematic capture and professional PCB design.
• Knowledge of industrial communication protocols such as SPI, Ethernet, EtherCAT, CAN, and Modbus for integrating sensors and controllers.
• Understanding of motion control systems and how they interface with AC/DC power distribution in a test environment.
• Experience with wiring harnesses and the ability to design layouts that optimize space and improve airflow.
• Background in portable data systems that can be quickly calibrated and deployed in dynamic test settings.

Practical notes

Relativity provides a comprehensive benefits package including equity, paid time off, sick leave, parental leave, and an annual learning and development stipend. If you require a reasonable accommodation during the hiring process, contact accommodations@relativityspace.com. Unsolicited resumes from recruitment agencies are not accepted.