Lead Payload Systems Engineer jobs in United States
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Sceye · 1 month ago

Lead Payload Systems Engineer

Sceye is a high-growth technology company focused on building next-generation stratospheric platforms for communications and remote sensing. The Lead Payload Systems Engineer will oversee the technical authority and integration of payload systems for high-altitude platforms, managing the entire payload lifecycle from design to deployment.

3D TechnologyAerospaceInternetSensorSolar
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H1B Sponsor Likelynote

Responsibilities

Lead the technical integration of all payloads (e.g., EO, telecom, hyperspectral, LiDAR, radar, or custom sensor systems) into the flight platform
Define and maintain the payload-to-platform interface requirements (mechanical, electrical, data, thermal, and RF)
Ensure payload design meets platform-level performance, safety, and mission requirements
Develop and execute payload integration, verification, and validation (IV&V) plans for lab, ground, and flight environments
Coordinate payload integration testing — mechanical fit checks, EMI/EMC, thermal-vacuum, vibration, and functional performance
Lead troubleshooting, anomaly resolution, and root-cause analysis during integration and flight test campaigns
Collaborate closely with Systems Engineering, Avionics, Flight Operations, and Mission Planning teams to ensure seamless payload integration
Act as primary technical interface with payload vendors, ensuring timely delivery and compliance with interface control documents (ICDs)
Drive design reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR) for payload subsystems and contribute to platform-level reviews
Own and maintain payload-related documentation: interface control documents (ICDs), configuration management, and test reports
Ensure payloads meet applicable aerospace standards and regulatory requirements (FCC, FAA, ITAR/EAR, etc.)
Support creation of flight-readiness documentation and mission assurance reviews
Identify and implement design and process improvements that enhance payload integration efficiency, reduce mass/power budgets, and increase reliability
Contribute to system-level architecture studies for future payload capabilities and missions

Qualification

Payload systems designIntegrationVerificationSystems engineering principlesCAD toolsElectrical power systemsEO/IR sensorsCommunication payloadsLeadership skillsCommunicationOrganizational skills

Required

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Physics, or related field
10+ years of experience in payload systems design, integration, and operations
Proven track record managing complex payloads with multiple interfaces and stakeholders
Deep understanding of systems engineering principles, configuration management, and verification processes
Experience with CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) and system modeling tools (e.g., DOORS, Cameo, SysML)
Strong understanding of electrical power systems, data buses (Ethernet, SpaceWire, CAN), and RF architectures
Proven leadership of complex, multi-disciplinary aerospace or satellite projects
Strong understanding of EO/IR sensors, data processing, and communication payloads
Experience with systems engineering, verification & validation, and flight operations
Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills

Preferred

Master's degree or higher in a relevant engineering or scientific discipline
Experience with HAPS, LEO satellites, UAVs, or high-altitude systems
Knowledge of FAA and NASA payload integration standards

Benefits

Chef-Prepared Lunches – Fresh, onsite meals to keep you fueled and focused.
Snacks & Refreshments – Enjoy a variety of snacks and drinks available throughout the day.
Wellness Perks – Access to a gym, pickleball court, and an outdoor dog kennel.
Dog-Friendly Environment – Bring your four-legged friends to work and enjoy a pet-welcoming space.
Comprehensive Health Coverage – Medical, dental, vision, and disability insurance, with over 82% of premiums covered—and 100% for everything else.
401(k) with Match – Company contributions that are yours from day one.
High-Performance Culture – Join a collaborative, inclusive environment where your work helps shape the future of aerospace.

Company

Sceye

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Sceye is a material science company that is leading the development of a new generation of high-altitude platform stations

H1B Sponsorship

Sceye has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (3)
2024 (1)
2022 (2)
2020 (2)

Funding

Current Stage
Growth Stage
Total Funding
$65M
Key Investors
SoftBankMawarid HoldingKittyHawk
2025-06-25Series C· $15M
2024-09-17Series C
2021-08-04Series B· $50M

Leadership Team

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David Kim
Chief Technology Officer
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Company data provided by crunchbase