Payload Systems Integration and Test Engineer
Core
Own end-to-end mission success for diverse payloads (sensors, communication systems, pharmaceutical processing equipment) on Varda's W-Series vehicles, serving as the technical bridge between payloads and the vehicle.
Role type
Payload Systems Integration and Test Engineer
Builds
In-orbit pharmaceutical processing payloads, hosted customer payloads, and satellite buses for the orbital economy.
Domain
Aerospace / Space Infrastructure / Life Sciences
Deliverable
production ML models | product features | dashboards & analysis | research | client delivery | infrastructure | physical/clinical work
Required skills
System-level thinking, interface definition, integration campaign planning, environmental testing (vibration, EMI/EMC, TVAC), troubleshooting, flight operations coordination, cleanroom work, physical lifting (25 lbs)
Preferred skills
Hosted payload integration, Interface Control Document (ICD) management, aerospace standards knowledge (GSFC-STD-7000, SMC-S-016), regulated-industry hardware experience, export control regulations (ITAR/EAR)
Technologies
Varda W-Series vehicles, pharmaceutical processing equipment, inertial/RF/optical sensors, communication systems
Responsibilities
Define payload-to-vehicle interfaces and capture requirements in ICDs; Plan and execute payload-level integration and test activities (incoming inspection, functional checkouts, environmental testing); Coordinate with Vehicle I&T engineers for full-vehicle test activities; Serve as primary technical point of contact for external payload customers; Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues during integration and test; Define payload flight operations and command sequences.
Seniority
Mid-level, hands-on IC