Senior Spacecraft Systems Engineer at Umbra in Reston, VA

Umbra is an American space technology company delivering advanced systems, from sensors to spacecraft, that empower customers worldwide with unmatched access to critical information from space. Our mission is simple and ambitious: redefine space—for people, systems, and missions in every domain. Umbra’s ecosystem operates through three business units: Remote Sensing (the data), Space Systems (the components), and Mission Solutions (the platforms). Together, our teams develop capabilities that deliver persistent access, resilient performance, and mission-ready solutions, advancing U.S. space leadership while keeping the world safe and informed.

About the TeamMission Solutions – The Platforms Mission Solutions builds on Umbra’s expertise in remote sensing and spacecraft operations to engineer platforms purpose-built for U.S. and allied defense and intelligence missions. Whether it’s a custom payload, a full-stack spacecraft, or the infrastructure behind an entire constellation, our team delivers secure, resilient systems tailored to exacting requirements and built on timelines that match the urgency of the mission.

If you want to work on cutting-edge space technology that’s redefining what’s possible in space platforms, you belong here at Umbra.

About the JobUmbra is seeking a motivated Spacecraft Systems Engineer to design and implement the next generation of space systems for our Mission Solutions programs.

This role involves design and developing manufacturable, modular, and resilient space vehicles while introducing innovative solutions to meet the needs of domestic and international customers. You will work closely with Umbra’s Remote Sensing and Space Systems teams to deliver mission-critical products and services.

The ideal candidate is a technical systems thinker and solution-focused innovator who excels at solving complex technical challenges using sound engineering principles. Experience working with and delivering space flight hardware is a must. Strong communication skills and the ability to lead in a multidisciplinary environment are essential.

Our aim is to hire this position to work in our Reston, VA office.

Key Responsibilities

• Spacecraft development though the full product life cycle, concept though on-orbit.
• Lead the development and technical implementation of Umbra’s spacecraft architecture and subsystem definitions.
• Define concepts of operations to inform mission and payload design.
• Conduct mission and spacecraft trade studies to guide budget allocations, system baselines, and equipment selection.
• Manage interfaces between spacecraft, subsystems, and payloads for both internal and externally funded development programs.
• Support hardware and or software development with individual technical contribution in area of expertise (mechanical, electrical, RF, etc).
• Support assembly, integration, and test phase of the program.
• Contribute to business development and capture efforts by authoring and reviewing formal responses and proposals for new opportunities.
• Travel up to 15% may be required between Umbra facilities in California and Northern Virginia, as well as to partner and customer locations.
• Perform other professional duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or equivalent experience.
• 8-10+ years of relevant technical experience.
• Strong understanding of spacecraft and payload subsystems.
• Expertise in the development of at least one spacecraft subsystem (e.g., Power, Comm, GN&C, Mechanical, Electrical, etc).
• Proven leadership ability to drive technical concepts from formulation to implementation.
• Experience with integration, testing, launch, and operations.
• Knowledge of flight software, firmware development, and interfaces.
• Familiarity with systems engineering processes and program lifecycle.
• Strong interpersonal skills to interact effectively with customers and Umbra staff.
• Good communication skills, ability to collaborate in a team, and willingness to learn new technologies.
• Comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced development environment.

Desired Qualifications

• Proficient in engineering tools such as STK, Matlab, and Python.

• Delivered spacecraft or subsystems to stakeholders.

• Experienced in developing end-to-end mission solutions.

• Active TS/SCI security clearance or read-in within the past two years.

• Flexible Time Off, Sick, Family & Medical Leave

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, LTD, STD (employer funded)

• Vol Life, Critical Illness, Accidental, Hospital Indemnity, Pet Insurance (employee funded)

• 401k with 3% non-elective company contribution

• Stock Options

• Free parking

• Free lunch in office daily

Umbra is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions requiring an active U.S. Government security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

Employment Eligibility Verification

In compliance with federal laws, all hired persons will be required to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States by completing the required Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) upon hire.

ITAR/EAR Requirements

This position may include access to technology and/or data that is subject to U.S. export controls pursuant to ITAR and EAR. To comply with federal export controls, all persons hired must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, refugee or asylee as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), or must otherwise be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or U.S. Department of Commerce as applicable.

Pay Transparency This job posting may cover multiple career levels. To ensure greater transparency, we provide base salary ranges for all roles, regardless of location. Our standard pay ranges are based on the role’s function and level, benchmarked against similar growth-stage companies. Compensation may vary based on geographical location, as certain regions may have different cost-of-living factors. The final offer will also be influenced by the candidate's skills, responsibilities, and relevant experience.

Compensation Range

The Compensation Range for this role is $160,000 - $200,000 DOE.