Principal Systems Engineer

Department: SEIT

Employment Type: Full-Time

Location: Golden, Colorado, United States

Are you passionate about shaping the future of humanity's presence in space? Lunar Outpost, a trailblazer in space robotics, invites you to join our team! Lunar Outpost is dedicated to creating a sustainable presence in space, while also driving a positive impact here on Earth. We are seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to help us create the future of lunar surface mobility in a fast-paced startup environment.

Are you ready to lead systems design efforts that expand the frontiers of space exploration with cutting-edge space robotics? Lunar Outpost is seeking a talented, experienced Principal Systems Engineer to join our fast-paced, dynamic team. In this role, you will be the SEIT Manager for the Lunar Terrain Vehicle System (LTVS) Program and oversee the design and development of systems for spacecraft and associated technologies that are driving the future of lunar mobility and autonomy. You will work closely to guide a multi-disciplinary team of engineers, ensuring that our systems solutions are innovative, efficient, and compliant with industry best practices. Your expertise and leadership will drive groundbreaking projects to the Moon and beyond.

Key Responsibilities:

• Function as the SEIT Manager for the LTVS Program to contribute to the design, development, assembly, testing and deployment of robust hardware systems in real-world products, coordinating with external partners to integrate and test robotic systems to ensure they meet operational needs and performance standards.
• Create, manage, and update project management plans, process flows, and compliance documentation for various robotics projects.
• Interact with stakeholders at technical meetings and design reviews, including presenting, coordinating, and acting as technical expert. 
• Identify, solicit, document, and disseminate functional, performance, interface, and non-functional requirements (such as standards, reliability, and maintainability) for space vehicle systems.
• Trace components requirements to system requirements; communicate requirements to suppliers, vendors, and subcontractors.
• Develop hardware and software component functional models and concise functional description documents. 
• Develop and document trade studies, concepts of operation (CONOPS), risk analyses, and use cases.
• Work closely with other engineering disciplines to guide detailed specification and design architecture options.
• Manage Interface Control Documents (ICDs), Interface Definition Documents (IDDs), project and procurement scheduling, shipment receipt, and inventory tracking.
• Oversee the design verification process; drive requirement validation by drafting and maintaining Requirements Verification Plans.
• Provide technical direction for the team, including mentoring and supporting the development of engineers and team leaders. 

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years of engineering/product development experience, including demonstrated proficiency and leadership in systems engineering.
• Demonstrated expertise leading requirements management. 
• Proven experience working with robotic or spacecraft systems, hardware and software.
• Excellent technical understanding of interface control documents, complex mechanical and electrical engineering drawings and architecture, and software process flowcharts.

• Self-motivated, focused, and driven to meet critical deadlines

• Team oriented, with excellent interpersonal and written communication skills 

• Excellent organization and time management skills and attention to detail

• Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively

• Ability to thrive in a dynamic team environment

• U.S. Persons

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Robotic mobility and/or automotive industry experience

• PMP Certification 

• Master’s degree in engineering or related technical discipline

• Familiarity with government contracts, grant-funded projects, or regulatory compliance

Compensation & Benefits: Compensation level and base salary are competitively structured and thoughtfully determined based on factors such as relevant skills, experience, education, and the scope of the role.

• Comprehensive health coverage: Medical, dental, and vision benefits, with 70% of premiums covered by the employer
• Paid time off: Three (3) weeks per year of vacation
• Retirement plan: Up to 4% employer match on 401(k) contributions
• Paid holidays: 11 company-recognized holidays
• Parental leave
• Educational reimbursement opportunities to support company objectives, continued learning, and career development

Lunar Outpost Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Lunar Outpost Inc. does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, ethnicity, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. All employees, including executives and human resources personnel, are expected to conduct themselves with professionalism and treat others with dignity and respect in accordance with this policy.