Payload Systems Engineer

About the role

Stratolaunch is a leader in the realm of hypersonic technology, concentrating on practical testing that surpasses speeds of Mach

5. Our innovative Talon testbeds are designed to gather crucial flight data that aids in system validation and expedites the deployment of technologies vital for national security. We are seeking a Senior or Staff-level Systems Engineer to oversee the mechanical, structural, and materials integration of payloads for the Talon-A hypersonic vehicle. The ideal candidate will possess a solid foundation in vehicle integration and testing, with a particular emphasis on structural and materials considerations.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Oversee the integration and requirements pertaining to the mechanical, structural, and materials elements of payloads.
• Work closely with integration and test engineers, program management, and payload clients to facilitate vehicle payload integration, testing, and data acquisition.
• Formulate and monitor requirements to guarantee adherence to client specifications.
• Engage in test planning, readiness assessments, execution, troubleshooting, and evaluations following tests.
• Create and refine methods for data analysis and review.
• Set and maintain standards for test planning and documentation processes.
• Collaborate with a diverse engineering team and external partners to achieve project goals.
• Maintain a high level of integrity and accountability in all assigned tasks.

Requirements

• Expertise in at least two of the following domains: Systems Engineering, Mechanical Systems, Materials, Electrical and Avionics Systems, Propulsion Systems, GNC and Flight Controls, or Aerodynamics.
• Experience in contributing to significant technical reviews, including System Requirements Review, Preliminary Design Review, or Critical Design Review.
• Background in systems engineering and technical roles related to Mechanical, Structural, and/or Materials Engineering.
• Ability to quickly adapt to evolving project requirements.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

Nice to have

• Experience working in dynamic, small engineering teams where roles are varied.
• Familiarity with structures, avionics, instrumentation, software, fluid systems, and/or liquid rocket technologies.
• Understanding of aerospace industry standards regarding vehicle configuration management.
• Experience in the development of air-launched hypersonic vehicles.
• Skills in identifying, managing, and mitigating technical risks.
• Experience in defining and managing requirements for hypersonic vehicles featuring hot-structure airframes.
• Active DOD Secret security clearance is a plus.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Experience with CAD software, preferably SolidWorks.
• Familiarity with configuration management tools such as Jira.
• Knowledge of requirement management systems like Jama, Cameo, or DOORS.

Practical notes

This role is based in Mojave, CA, with an anticipated travel requirement of less than 10% to support program needs.

Stratolaunch provides a competitive benefits package that includes a 9/80 work schedule, comprehensive healthcare options, paid maternity and parental leave, a 401(k) plan with company matching, and tuition reimbursement.

Stratolaunch is dedicated to creating a diverse workplace and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply. We uphold a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination or harassment and ensure equal opportunity in all employment aspects. U.S. Citizenship may be necessary for certain positions due to government clearance requirements.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• For the Senior-level position: A Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from an accredited institution along with 5-10 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Salary range: $120,500 - $158,000.
• For the Staff-level position: A Bachelor's degree (B.S.) from an accredited institution with 10-20 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Salary range: $157,000 - $206,000.

If you are passionate about advancing hypersonic technology and meet the qualifications outlined above, we invite you to apply and join our innovative team at Stratolaunch. Your contributions will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of aerospace technology and national security.

About the company

High-speed flight test services form the core work of this American aerospace team. Company roots trace to 2011, created by Paul Allen and Burt Rutan to explore air-launched space transport. Home base is Seattle. Earlier collaboration on SpaceShipOne informed the project. New ownership arrived in 2019 through Cerberus Capital Management. Funding remains private. Operations follow a non-traditional defense contractor model, focusing on test missions and system development under continued private investment.