Principal Space Systems Research and Development Engineer

Herndon, VA · full time · Principal

$180,000 – $215,000

Listed on BlackSky’s own careers site. You apply with them directly — we never stand between you and the employer.

What this role is

Lead the research and development of next-generation satellite technologies at a real-time intelligence company, from concept validation through prototype delivery to operational integration. This role suits experienced space systems engineers who thrive in balancing multiple technical portfolios with varying risk profiles and timelines while bridging engineering teams and customer stakeholders.

Our summary, not BlackSky’s wording. The full posting is on their site.

Skills this role names

What they ask for

Required

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical Engineering, Physics or comparable field
At least 12 years of systems engineering experience developing space systems
Direct work on 5+ distinct flight programs for space hardware development
Tech lead experience on 5+ space hardware development efforts
Cross-disciplinary experience in electrical, mechanical, and software systems
Successfully captured and executed 5+ government space systems contracts
Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility
U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status

Nice to have

Work experience on flight programs spanning a range of cost and complexity
International government customer space systems experience
Project management experience
Expertise in space-based optical systems, remote sensing, communications, on-board processing, security and resiliency, guidance/navigation/control, or precision system integration and test