Head of Launch Systems

RESPONSIBILITIES:

System Design & Development 

• 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. 

  Program & Team Leadership 

  • 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. 

  Development, Integration, Test & Field Operations 

  • 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. 

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

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.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

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. 

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

Master’s degree in engineering or a related field. 
Experience with canister-based or VLS (Vertical Launch System) launch system design and integration. 
Background with ISO container-based mobile systems or rapidly deployable weapon/sensor platforms. 
Familiarity with MIL-STD-461, MIL-STD-810, and MIL-HDBK-17 or equivalent standards. 
Experience with structural fabrication and inspection to AWS D1.1, AWS 17.1, or equivalent 
Active Secret or Top Secret/SCI security clearance. 
Hands-on experience with the integration and testing of propulsion or energetics ground systems. 
Knowledge of safety and reliability methodologies, including FMEA, FTA, and PHA. 
Program management exposure (Earned Value, IMS, risk registers). 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

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