Lead Payload Systems Engineer
Status: Full Time
Location: San Francisco Bay Area, CA / Moriarty, NM
Reporting To: Director of Payload
About the Position:The Lead Payload Systems Engineer will serve as the technical authority and systems/ integration lead for all payload systems onboard our High-Altitude Platform (HAPS). This role is responsible for end-to-end payload lifecycle - from requirements definition and interface design through integration, test, and flight readiness. The ideal candidate combines strong systems engineering fundamentals with hands-on experience in integrating multi-sensor or communications payloads into complex flight systems.
Lead Payload Systems Engineer will lead Sceye's payload operations, overseeing the design, integration, testing, and deployment of mission payloads across multiple programs. You will be responsible for the entire payload lifecycle - from concept and development through flight operations and data delivery. The ideal candidate brings both systems-level thinking and hands-on technical expertise in aerospace payloads, instrumentation, or remote sensing systems.
What You'll Do:- Payload System Ownership
- 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.
- Integration & Verification
- 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.
- Cross-Functional Leadership
- 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.
- Documentation & Compliance
- 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.
- Innovation & Continuous Improvement
- 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.
What We're Looking For: - 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.
What We Offer:At Sceye, we're building more than high-altitude platforms-we're building a workplace where people (and their pups) thrive. Here's what you'll enjoy:
- 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.
