Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Position: Spacecraft Systems Engineer – Quantum Space
Location: Rockville, MD
Commitment: Full-time, all-in

Who We’re Looking For

Quantum Space is leading the way in space mobility, building high-autonomy, long-duration spacecraft to extend humanity’s reach beyond Earth orbit. We’re seeking a Spacecraft Systems Engineer to architect, integrate, and lead the development of spaceflight systems from concept to launch—and beyond.

In this role, you will work cradle-to-grave on spacecraft programs, taking ownership from initial requirements definition through detailed design, integration, testing, and mission operations. You’ll develop technical budgets, drive system-level trades, coordinate across disciplines, and ensure system-level performance and verification for flight missions across civil, commercial, and national security sectors.

Where You’ll Make an Impact

System Engineering Leadership

Develop and maintain spacecraft system requirements, interface definitions, performance budgets, and CONOPS.

Lead architecture development, mission analysis, and design trades to optimize system performance across subsystems.

Coordinate system-level technical execution, including flow-down to subsystem teams, schedule planning, and risk management.

Serve as the technical lead through all lifecycle phases—from early design through I&T and into mission ops.

Verification, Test, and Integration

Own the system verification plan: establish requirements traceability, define verification methods, and drive end-to-end V&V.

Support environmental test planning and execution, including thermal-vacuum, vibration, shock, and integrated functional testing.

Analyze test data and correlate system models to flight and ground results.

Lead resolution of integration and test anomalies, including system-level troubleshooting and corrective action planning.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Interface with GNC, thermal, propulsion, avionics, comms, software, and payload teams to deliver integrated system solutions.

Collaborate with program management, mission ops, and customers to align technical development with program goals.

Contribute to proposal writing, technical reviews, and customer-facing documentation.

What It Takes

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace, Systems, Electrical, Mechanical, or a related engineering field.

8-10+ years of experience/education supporting spacecraft or satellite development programs.

Proven experience in system architecture, technical budgeting, and requirements definition.

Strong understanding of key spacecraft subsystems: ADCS, EPS, thermal, C&DH, comms, and propulsion.

Hands-on experience with system integration and environmental testing.

Experience supporting spaceflight programs across their full lifecycle—from early concept to on-orbit operations.

Familiarity with MATLAB, Python, or STK for analysis and simulation.

Experience with requirements management tools (e.g., DOORS, JAMA, or equivalent).

Excellent communication and documentation skills with the ability to drive technical discussions across diverse teams.

Nice-to-Have Experience

Experience supporting deep space, GEO, or cislunar missions.

Prior involvement in satellite operations or hardware-in-the-loop testing.

Experience with fault management and spacecraft autonomy systems.

Background in rapid development or responsive space programs.

What You’ll Get

Ownership – Drive the technical development of Quantum’s spacecraft systems.

Innovation – Help define system architectures for next-generation space missions.

Impact – Deliver critical platforms that support scientific, civil, and national security space objectives.

Growth – Be a leader on a mission-driven, high-performance engineering team.

Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and top-tier benefits, including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, FSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharing.

Additional Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Apply now. Join us in building spacecraft systems that push the boundaries of space operations.