Senior Systems Integration and Test Engineer

A New Paradigm For Space Operations.

Who We Are:

Space Kinetic is a dual use space technology startup building a completely new architecture for space operations – one that brings the advantages of proliferated drone technology (low-cost, operationally flexible, attainable, distributed) to space missions while reducing the ecosystem's reliance on consumable fuel. In a world where many companies are focused on incrementally improving the status quo, we are focused on creating something entirely different – an architecture underpinned by new first principles to meet the opportunities and challenges of the third space age head-on. Our goal is to move away from one-to-one space architectures – where each satellite in a constellation has one (or a small # of) primary payloads attached to the bus -- and unlock a ‘one-to-many’ system, where each satellite has a large number of payloads which can be deployed from their host spacecraft at high velocities without firing a thruster.

This is not a role for someone looking for a traditional 40-hour work week. Space Kinetic is building ambitious, first-of-its-kind technology, and that requires urgency, ownership, and a high level of commitment to changing the foundational assumptions for everything we do in space.

What You’ll Do:

We are seeking a Senior Systems Integration and Test Engineer to integrate complex hardware and software and execute system-level testing for space-based systems. This hands-on role will verify subsystem performance, troubleshoot integration issues, and ensure systems meet requirements.

Job Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute system integration and test plans.
• Integrate hardware and software subsystems and troubleshoot interface-level issues.
• Define interface requirements with hardware, software, and systems engineering teams.
• Analyze test data and communicate results through reports, presentations, and recommendations.
• Develop automated test scripts and procedures to improve efficiency and test coverage.
• Design and build mechanical and electrical ground support equipment.
• Support system verification, validation, and customer acceptance testing.
• Establish integration and test best practices, tools, and procedures.

What It Takes:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 5+ years of systems integration and testing experience.
• Experience with RF, SATCOM, radar, wireless systems, or flight testing of missiles, launch vehicles, spacecraft, or aircraft.
• Hands-on experience with hardware/software integration, system-level testing, and troubleshooting.
• Proficiency with test equipment and tools such as MATLAB, Python, or LabVIEW.
• Experience collaborating across distributed, cross-functional engineering teams.
• Strong technical documentation, reporting, and communication skills.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance.

What We’d Love:

• Experience developing products for aerospace applications.
• Familiarity with phased-array technologies or satellite communications.
• Strong analytical skills and a creative approach to problem-solving.
• Ability to work autonomously and deliver results within time and cost constraints.

Where You’ll Be:

• The position is onsite at our headquarters in El Segundo, CA.

What We Offer:

• Equity-Based Compens