Staff Multi-disciplined (Systems) Engineer

Portal Space Systems•Bothell, WA

7d•$190,000 - $250,000•Onsite

About The Position

Portal Space Systems is seeking an experienced multidisciplinary engineer for its Systems Engineering Directorate. The role applies systems thinking across mission needs, requirements definition, systems architecture and interfaces, and system-level integration and verification planning for space programs. The position uses a hands-on technical approach and lightweight, fit-for-purpose artifacts—such as models, diagrams, interface documents, requirements, and decision records—rather than relying on heavy documentation or burdensome processes. The engineer will contribute technically to Portal teams, help establish processes and standards, and promote consistent system behavior and stronger systems thinking across teams. The role is based at Portal’s headquarters in Bothell, Washington. Compensation is listed at $190,000–$250,000, with the actual level and base salary determined based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Candidates must be eligible to access ITAR-controlled items; eligibility requires being a U.S. person, and employment is contingent on verification and any required export authorization or license.

Requirements

At least 5 years of experience as an individual contributor in more than one relevant engineering discipline on complex or mission-critical systems.
Experience examining existing industry processes and practices, analyzing their applicability, and tailoring them with traceability.
Experience with one or more design, diagramming, or modeling tools, such as Visio, Cameo, Rhapsody, Mermaid, or draw.io.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to decompose, summarize, and communicate complex systems.
Technical curiosity and ability to learn.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, highly collaborative startup environment with high levels of ownership.
Ability to take ownership and lead cross-functional interactions, and mentor junior engineers to do the same.
U.S.-person status is required for eligibility to access ITAR-controlled items; employment is contingent on verification of eligibility and, where applicable, required export authorization or license.

Nice To Haves

Understanding of the advantages, limitations, and drawbacks of AI-enhanced engineering.
Interest in systems thinking, discipline, and methodologies.
A strong desire to grow, learn, and adapt.
At least 7 years of related engineering experience across multiple disciplines, and/or a master’s degree with equivalent hands-on depth.
Experience with systems engineering principles and concepts.
Familiarity with space vehicles, space ground operations, or related technical experience.
Ability to recognize good systems engineering and distinguish it from poor practice.
Exposure to project management, risk management, requirements, verification and validation, failure analysis, modeling, diagramming, or similar areas.
Experience with DOORS or similar requirements management tools (the posting says “based PTSD”).

Responsibilities

Coordinate across engineering disciplines and suppliers.
Drive technical, cross-functional consensus on interfaces and requirements.
Perform trade studies and risk assessments.
Support execution from system definition through integration readiness.
Own tactical execution through hands-on technical contributions to Portal teams.
Promote and enable technical rigor across teams to ensure consistent system behaviors.
Grow systems thinking within teams.
Analyze tools and methodologies and assess their applicability to programs and teams.
Help establish Portal processes, procedures, and standards.