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← BlackSky

Principal Space Systems Research and Development Engineer

BlackSky
Location
Herndon, VA
Posted
26 days ago
Department
Technology/Imaging 40-065
Salary
$180,000-$215,000
What they actually want (must-haves)
  • Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a comparable field.
  • Extensive experience as a systems engineer developing space systems (at least 12 years).
  • Direct work experience on multiple (5+) distinct flight programs to develop space hardware.
  • Direct work experience as a tech lead on multiple (5+) space hardware development efforts.
  • Experience working across multiple engineering disciplines, including electrical, mechanical, and software systems.
  • Multiple (5+) distinct experiences successfully capturing government contracts and working with US government customers to develop space systems.
Nice to have
  • Direct work experience on multiple distinct flight programs that cover a range of both cost and complexity.
  • Direct work experience developing space systems for international government customers.
  • Direct work experience as a project manager.
  • Depth of knowledge in at least one of the following specialty areas: Space-based optical systems, Other (ie non-optical) remote sensing phenomenologies, Space-based communications systems, On-board processing, Security and/or resiliency of space-based systems, Space-based guidance, navigation, and control systems, Integration & test of precision systems, Space mechanisms and advanced structures.
What the job really is

The Principal Space Systems Research and Development Engineer at BlackSky will lead the development of innovative satellite technologies, focusing on creating validated prototypes for integration into operational capabilities. The role involves identifying strategic satellite technologies, securing R&D funding, executing funded programs, and mentoring other engineers. The engineer will collaborate across various engineering disciplines and engage with customers to ensure impactful outcomes.

Benefits
  • Medical, dental, vision, disability, group term life and AD&D, voluntary life and AD&D insurance
  • BlackSky pays 100% of employee-only premiums for medical, dental and vision and contributes $100/month for out-of-pocket expenses!
  • 15 days of PTO, 11 Company holidays, four Floating Holidays (pro-rated based on hire date), one day of paid volunteerism leave per year, parental leave and more
  • 401(k) pre-tax and Roth deferral options with employer match
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Employee Stock Purchase Program
Things to weigh
  • Position requires an active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility, which may limit candidate pool.
  • The role involves both low-risk and high-risk projects, which may lead to varying levels of job stability and pressure.
  • The salary range is broad, and final compensation will depend on specific background and education, which may lead to negotiation variability.
Job score4.6/5
Benefits5/5
Freshness4/5
Career value4/5
Role clarity5/5
Pay transparency5/5

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