Terran Orbital is seeking an experienced Systems Engineering Architect to join our dynamic team. Reporting to the Sr. Director, Platform & Mission Engineering, the Systems Engineering Architect will lead the design and integration of advanced space satellite architectures.
This role requires deep expertise across avionics, power, propulsion, security, computer architecture, communications, and navigation, with a proven ability to architect complex "systems of systems" that enable next-generation orbital mobility, secure communications, and resilient mission operations. As a senior technical leader, you will define technology roadmaps, lead analysis of alternatives, and oversee the integration of multi-domain subsystems into cohesive spacecraft architectures.
You will collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams, government stakeholders, and industry partners to deliver breakthrough satellite capabilities on schedule and within budget.
This role is fully onsite in either our Irvine, CA or Melbourne, FL office.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
• Define and implement spacecraft system architecture roadmaps aligned with mission objectives. • Lead Analysis of Alternatives (AoA) to evaluate avionics, power, propulsion, communication, and navigation solutions. • Establish technical standards and architectures that support interoperability across platforms. • Architect end-to-end satellite solutions spanning avionics, power, propulsion, security, computer systems, communications, and navigation. • Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams in subsystem design, integration, and qualification. • Champion innovative approaches to increase performance, reduce costs, and accelerate development cycles. • Oversee execution of spacecraft architecture projects from concept through deployment. • Establish and maintain technical performance metrics, schedules, and budgets. • Collaborate with manufacturing, supply chain, and mission operations to ensure seamless integration. • Mentor and lead engineering teams, fostering technical excellence and innovation. • Partner with vehicle engineering, mission architecture, and external stakeholders to deliver effective solutions. • Represent the company in industry forums, standards bodies, and with government partners.
Qualifications and Skills
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field; advanced degree preferred.
12+ years of experience in spacecraft systems engineering and architecture.
Demonstrated expertise across avionics, power, propulsion, security, computer architecture, communications, and navigation subsystems.
Proven track record architecting complex "systems of systems" for space missions.
Strong background in RF communications, SDRs, antennas, DSP, and navigation algorithms.
Experience developing technology roadmaps and leading AoA for complex technical systems.
Knowledge of spacecraft integration, verification, and environmental qualification.
Eligible for U.S. DoD security clearance (U.S. Citizenship required).
Preferred Experience
Ph.D. or M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related discipline.
Experience with deep space communications, inter-satellite links, and ground station networks.
Knowledge of secure computing architectures and regulatory spectrum management.
Background in digital signal processing algorithms and advanced communications theory.
Experience working with NASA, DoD, or other government partners on spacecraft systems.
Track record of innovation demonstrated through patents, publications, or successful technology transitions.