Sr. Avionics Engineer

Cowboy Space•Seattle, WA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Cowboy Space Corp. is building the infrastructure to power and connect the orbital economy. Our satellites operate in Low Earth Orbit to collect sunlight and enable a new class of capabilities—from powering on-orbit compute, to transmitting energy via infrared lasers (space-to-earth and space-to-space), powering on-orbit compute to delivering secure, high-bandwidth optical data. By rethinking how energy and data are generated and distributed in space, we’re unlocking entirely new ways to operate both in orbit and on Earth. Founded in 2024 by Baiju Bhatt (co-founder of Robinhood), Cowboy Space Corp. is backed by leading investors and built by a team from top aerospace and defense organizations. We’re moving quickly to solve complex technical challenges and build a new category of space infrastructure. The Senior Avionics Engineer role is responsible for the design, development, and integration of electrical systems supporting advanced data center satellites. You will collaborate with software, mechanical, solar, and propulsion engineers to develop solutions that meet rigorous performance standards for space applications.

Requirements

Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline.
5+ years of experience in electrical design, preferably in aerospace, satellite, or computing systems.
Circuit simulation and analysis experience using tools such as LTspice and spreadsheets.
Hands-on experience with lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, signal generators, and soldering stations.
Strong troubleshooting skills and experience debugging electrical systems in lab environments.
Proficiency with CAD tools for electrical design (e.g., Altium, OrCAD).
Familiarity with control systems, sensors, and their integration into optical platforms.
U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Nice To Haves

Masters degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline.
Experience with accelerated computing systems
Familiarity with space qualification standards and environmental testing for aerospace applications (thermal-vacuum, vibration, radiation).
Experience working with cross-functional engineering teams, particularly with thermal and mechanical disciplines.
Understanding of satellite electrical systems and power distribution for space applications.

Responsibilities

Design and test electrical hardware for satellite subsystems, focusing on power management, control systems, and signal processing.
Develop and maintain schematics, PCB designs, and harness diagrams for laser systems and satellite subsystems.
Perform testing and debugging of electrical hardware, ensuring robust operation under various environmental conditions.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams (software, mechanical, and thermal engineers) to ensure seamless integration and system-level functionality.
Maintain detailed technical documentation, including system requirements, design specifications, and test plans.
Support environmental testing and validation, including thermal-vacuum, vibration, and electromagnetic interference tests to ensure space-qualification of electrical subsystems.
Participate in customer and internal design reviews, providing technical insights and recommendations for system improvements.
Stay up-to-date with emerging technologies and industry trends, and continuously improve the design and development process in the electrical engineering lab.