Head of Aerospace Systems Engineering

Odyssey SpaceWorks

Head of Aerospace Systems Engineering

new york city, NY
Full Time
Paid
  • Responsibilities

    HQ: New York City

    As the Head of Aerospace Engineering at Odyssey SpaceWorks, you will be responsible for leading our flight systems engineering team, and overseeing the design, development, and deployment of our small satellite systems. This is a strategic role where you will define technical roadmaps, manage mission-critical projects, and help drive innovation. We are seeking someone with a strong background in aerospace and a passion for space systems to take on this leadership role in a fast-paced startup environment. This is a hands on role.

    Key Responsibilities:

    • Lead, mentor, and manage the engineering team, ensuring the successful execution of satellite development projects.
    • Oversee the full lifecycle of satellite systems development, from conceptual design through to testing, integration, and mission deployment.
    • Collaborate with the leadership team to develop and execute the technical strategy, aligning with Odyssey SpaceWorks' long-term goals.
    • Innovate on satellite and space system designs to ensure our technology stays competitive and cutting-edge.
    • Establish and maintain engineering processes, including quality control, testing protocols, and risk management.
    • Manage external relationships with partners, contractors, and space agencies.
    • Ensure that all technical deliverables meet space mission requirements, including durability, safety, and performance.
    • Support in recruiting efforts to expand the engineering team and strengthen technical capabilities.

    Required Experience:

    • B.S. degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Aerospace engineering or related technical field
    • Testbed, Assembly, Integration & Test (A&IT), or Assembly, Test and Launch Operations (ATLO) experience
    • Spaceflight hardware build and integration experience with depth in one or more subsystems (propulsion, structures, electrical power systems, avionics, mechanisms, thermal protection system, communications, descent systems)
    • Highly knowledgeable of systems engineering practices and experience rightsizing for rapid development/experimental programs
    • Experience with spacecraft development
    • Self-directed and capable of balancing several tasks at one time
    • Participate in and lead technical and programmatic customer interactions that require your expertise
    • Strong expertise in satellite systems architecture, mission design, and spaceflight operations.
    • Hands-on experience with spacecraft systems integration, testing, and regulatory compliance.
    • Proven leadership and project management skills, with a track record of delivering results on time and within scope.

    Nice to Haves:

    • Experience with small satellite missions (e.g., CubeSats, small sats), or satellite systems for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) or Medium Earth Orbit (MEO).
    • Background in space payloads for scientific research or commercial applications.
    • Experience in startup environments, with a strong entrepreneurial mindset.
    • Familiarity with mission software, satellite communication systems (RF), or autonomous spacecraft operations.

    Why Join Odyssey SpaceWorks?
    This is a unique opportunity to join a rapidly growing company at the forefront of space technology innovation. As Head of Engineering, you will play a critical role in shaping the future of Odyssey SpaceWorks and the wider space industry. If you're passionate about space exploration and ready to take on a leadership role, we'd love to hear from you! Comprehensive benefits and equity in tow as well. We're open to working with the right candidate regardless of location.