Spacecraft Payload Engineer - Embedded Systems

HawkEye 360•Herndon, VA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

HawkEye 360’s Space Software Team seeks a curious, hands-on engineer to work directly with spacecraft hardware and software. The role configures payload hardware for spacecraft integration, runs and troubleshoots software-driven tests, and supports the lab systems and flatsats used to develop and validate payloads. The engineer works closely with Software, FPGA, Electrical, and AI&T teams, gaining exposure to the payload lifecycle from development through launch and on-orbit operations. The position requires on-site work in HawkEye 360’s Herndon, Virginia office at least four days per week. Candidates should have a strong foundation in Python and Linux, enjoy hands-on hardware work, and be comfortable investigating problems and learning new technologies. HawkEye 360 offers a competitive base salary, an annual performance bonus, benefits, and equity. The stated salary range is $70,000–$115,000 USD. Offers may vary based on experience, education, training, skills, market and business considerations, and the level of the candidate’s qualifications.

Requirements

B.S. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
At least 2 years of relevant engineering experience.
Strong working knowledge of Python and Linux.
Experience working with electronic or embedded systems.
Familiarity with electrical schematics and hardware interfaces such as CAN, SPI, I2C, UART, or Ethernet.
Strong troubleshooting skills, curiosity, and a desire to work hands-on with hardware.

Nice To Haves

C/C++ experience.
Experience with lab equipment, automated testing, or hardware-in-the-loop systems.
Experience with embedded Linux, SDR/RF, or FPGA-based systems.
Soldering, cabling, or electronics rework experience.
Git and CI/CD experience.
Spacecraft or satellite operations experience.

Responsibilities

Configure and prepare payload hardware and software for spacecraft integration, including programming and flashing embedded devices.
Run and troubleshoot software-driven tests on flight and lab hardware.
Maintain and troubleshoot payload flatsats, Ground Support Equipment (GSE), and lab test setups.
Investigate hardware and software issues using logs, telemetry, schematics, and lab equipment.
Work across engineering teams to diagnose problems and drive them to resolution.
Develop and improve test tools, automation, and lab capabilities while learning the system.