Head of Launch Systems

About the role

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end design and development of a 40-ft containerized launch system for a new interceptor, meeting all performance, safety, and reliability requirements.
• Architect, detailed design and validation of all major subsystems, including: • Electrical systems — power distribution, control wiring, and system interfaces
• Power systems — primary and backup power, energy storage, and conversion
• Pneumatic systems — high-pressure gas management, purge, and actuation circuits
• Hydraulic systems — actuator control, pressure regulation, and fluid management
• Structural systems — Container mechanical (welded structures and mechanisms) design and structural, thermal, vibration , and acoustic analysis
• Define system-level requirements and flow down to subsystem and component levels.
• Oversee trades studies, design reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR), and technical baseline management.
• Directly manage and develop a team of 3–5 engineers across mechanical, electrical, and systems disciplines.
• Assign work, set priorities, conduct performance reviews, and mentor team members toward career growth.
• Interface with internal stakeholders to coordinate schedules and deliverables.
• Work closely with external customers to develop key system interfaces and requirements
• Represent the launch system in internal design reviews, customer briefings, and supplier meetings.
• Own technical risk identification and mitigation planning for all launch system subsystems.
• Lead detailed system design, operating as ‘player/coach’ with work split biased towards lead technical contributor
• Lead system integration and qualification testing, including functional, environmental, and acceptance testing.
• Develop and review test plans, procedures, and anomaly reports.
• Support field deployment and operational readiness activities at test and operational sites.
• Coordinate with safety engineering to ensure compliance with all applicable range and system safety requirements.

Requirements

• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• 8+ yrs of progressive engineering experience in ground support, launch ground systems, or industrial/energy ground infrastructure.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience with two or more of the following system domains:
• Electrical systems (power distribution, wiring harnesses, control electronics)
• Power systems (prime power, UPS, switching, protection)
• Pneumatic systems (high-pressure gas handling, regulators, valves)
• Hydraulic systems (actuators, manifolds, fluid circuits)
• Structural/mechanical systems (fabricated ground structures, mechanisms, tight tolerance structures)
• Experience leading or co-leading a multi-discipline engineering team on a hardware development program.
• Background in aerospace ground systems (launch vehicles, missiles, satellites) or a similar discipline (oil and gas, automotive, large field equipment)
• Familiarity with requirements management, design review processes, and systems engineering fundamentals.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret security clearance (U.S. citizenship required).
• This is an on-site role based in Long Beach, California.
• Work is performed in a combination of office, laboratory, and field environments.
• May require work near launch structures, high-pressure systems, and energetic materials; PPE required.
• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs; occasionally work in confined spaces or at elevated heights.
• Domestic and international travel up to 25%, including extended periods at remote test sites.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time
• Ability to use a computer to complete assignments
• Ability to communicate with individuals and groups in person, by phone, and telepresence
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee will typically work in an office environment