Harness Design Engineer

About the role

In this position, you will be integral to the Starshield initiative, which focuses on delivering advanced satellite technologies for national security, earth observation, and communication applications. Your responsibilities will encompass the complete lifecycle of satellite avionics interconnection systems, starting from the initial design and component selection through to final production and operational deployment in space.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Oversee the development and management of satellite avionics interconnection systems throughout all stages of the project, including design, testing, and operational phases in orbit.
• Develop comprehensive system architectures by determining network connectivity, power specifications, fault tolerance mechanisms, and configuration management strategies.
• Create detailed electrical schematics and 3D electro-mechanical harness designs utilizing Siemens NX CAD software.
• Work in collaboration with mechanical, RF, and EMI teams to enhance the physical arrangement of satellites, focusing on weight reduction, power efficiency, and ease of assembly.
• Perform thermal, vibration, and load analyses to guarantee the reliability of hardware across the entire mission lifecycle.
• Manage product delivery timelines by liaising with supply chain and production teams to ensure readiness for manufacturing.
• Conduct research and development initiatives aimed at enhancing harness mass, reducing costs, and improving overall reliability.
• Participate in cross-functional team meetings to discuss project progress, challenges, and solutions, ensuring alignment with mission objectives.
• Document and present design reviews and project updates to stakeholders, ensuring transparency and collaboration throughout the process.
• Mentor junior engineers and interns, providing guidance on best practices in harness design and engineering principles.
• Stay updated on industry trends and advancements in satellite technology to incorporate innovative solutions into designs.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in mechanical, electrical, or a related engineering discipline is required.
• Proven experience in electro-mechanical wire harness design or manufacturing, which may include internships or academic projects.
• Willingness to work extended hours and weekends to meet critical mission deadlines.
• Ability to travel to partner, vendor, or customer locations as necessary.
• Must comply with ITAR regulations, requiring U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, asylee, or refugee status.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

Nice to have

• At least one year of project experience involving complex electrical or mechanical systems, preferably in a leadership role.
• Familiarity with Siemens NX CAD software is advantageous.
• Experience in designing electrical and optical harnesses, including the creation of schematics and 3D models for avionics enclosures.
• Background in high-rate manufacturing sectors such as automotive, aerospace, or marine industries is a plus.
• Practical knowledge of component selection for connectors, shielding, fiber optics, and cabling systems.
• An active Top Secret or Top Secret SCI clearance would be beneficial.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in Siemens NX CAD software
• Expertise in electrical schematic design
• Competence in 3D modeling techniques
• Experience in harness manufacturing processes
• Ability to conduct system trade studies and evaluations

Practical notes

• The salary range for this position is as follows: Level 1 ($100,000 to $117,500) and Level 2 ($115,000 to $140,000).
• Compensation packages include long-term incentives, discretionary bonuses, and options for stock purchases.
• Benefits offered encompass medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) plan, paid parental leave, and three weeks of vacation in addition to over ten holidays.
• Individuals with active security clearances may qualify for a 10% salary differential, with a cap of an additional $20,000 annually.
• Employment is contingent upon passing drug and alcohol testing for personnel with security clearances.

About the company

Based in Starbase, Texas, a company pursues work in spaceflight, telecom, and artificial intelligence. A unit handles rocket launches, leading yearly orbital counts beyond other national and commercial teams. Another unit runs Starlink, a satellite communications firm. A third area, through SpaceXAI, advances Grok and AI integration with X, while managing data center operations. Roles often cross these paths. Candidates with engineering, software, or operations backgrounds may find chances to join projects that span launch, connectivity, and machine learning efforts in this Texas-based enterprise.