Space Mission 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 Job

Umbra's Mission Solutions department seeks a Space Mission Systems Engineer. This role develops solutions, products, and technologies for current and future U.S. Government needs. The systems engineer will create new mission solutions and architectures, interface with customers and stakeholders, and lead the technical team through the space program life cycle.

Collaboration will be essential, as the systems engineer will work closely with the Space Systems and Software departments at Umbra. The ideal candidate is a solution-oriented innovator with exceptional technical expertise, an ability to adapt to new areas of study, and a willingness to confront complex challenges using sound first-principles methodologies.

This position is based on-site in our Reston, VA office.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of integrated space and ground solution concepts using Umbra's current and emerging technologies to support Government-directed missions.
• Conduct mission systems engineering, performance analysis, and use case evaluations for conceptual designs and architectural solutions for existing and potential customers.
• Contribute to the company's technical portfolio development, ensuring alignment between strategy, future mission requirements, and commercial objectives.
• Assist the Director of Engineering in building a robust Modeling and Simulation capability to guide the architecture, development, and evolution of Umbra's space-based systems.
• Support Umbra Government Program capture efforts as a key technical contributor, including authoring and reviewing formal proposals and responses.
• Support Umbra Government Programs of record as a key technical contributor and lead engineer, including con-ops development, requirement development, gate reviews, V&V, contract deliverables, and other systems engineering functions.
• Travel approximately 15% to Umbra facilities in California, Washington D.C., and partner and customer sites.
• Perform other professional duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• 5-8+ years of experience in systems architecture design for satellite or aerospace systems.
• A technical degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field.
• Strong knowledge of system architecture frameworks and methodologies.
• Proven track record in leading architecture development for complex, multi-disciplinary projects.
• Demonstrated space systems engineering experience
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on critical thinking and innovative solutions.
• Strong communication skills, capable of explaining technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment while managing multiple tasks and priorities.
• Willingness and ability to obtain a TS/SCI security clearance if needed.

Desired Qualifications

• Familiarity with model-based systems engineering (MBSE) practices and tools.

• Experience with satellite subsystems, including payload, propulsion, power, and communications.

• Experience in space system design or operations within the U.S. Government or commercial space sectors.

• Understanding of software architecture principles and development processes.

• Experience with system simulation and modeling tools.

• Active TS/SCI Clearance.

• 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.

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 $150,000 - $200,000 DOE.