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Space Data Network Payload Systems Engineer

El Segundo, CA💼 Full-time💰 $129,000–$129,000🗓 2026-08-03 → 2026-09-26

Core

Lead electro-optic payload integrator for the Enterprise Space Terminal (EST) laser communications development effort on Space Data Network (SDN) satellites.

Role type

Senior Project Engineer (Electro-Optical and Payload Systems Engineering)

Builds

Laser communication payloads and integrated satellite systems for the U.S. Space Force and national security space enterprise.

Domain

Defense / Space Systems / Electro-Optics

Deliverable

production ML models | product features | dashboards & analysis | research | client delivery | infrastructure | physical/clinical work

Required skills

Systems engineering, Program management, Spacecraft and payload interface development, Mechanical design, Electrical design, Software integration, Technical risk management, Government customer liaison, DoD acquisition processes

Preferred skills

Space-based laser communications systems, Satellite payload integration, Mission assurance processes, Special Access Programs access

Technologies

Laser communication payloads, Electro-optic systems, Satellite platforms

Responsibilities

Lead integration of laser communication payloads on SDN satellites, Advise government customers on technical requirements compliance, Lead diverse technical teams to mitigate acquisition life cycle risks, Collaborate across program offices and external stakeholders, Establish trust with government customers

Seniority

Senior, hands-on IC with team leadership

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