Lead Spacecraft HITL Engineer

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.

For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.

Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.

We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet. 

We are seeking a talented and experienced Lead Hardware-In-the-Loop (HITL) Engineer to join our team and contribute to the testing and validation of satellite systems using state-of-the-art simulation and emulation techniques.

As a Lead HITL Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and executing hardware-in-the-loop testing strategies to validate and verify the performance, functionality, and reliability of satellite systems. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of engineers and technicians to design and implement realistic test environments using simulation and emulation tools. Your expertise and attention to detail will play a critical role in ensuring the successful deployment of satellite systems. Most importantly, you'll be leading an incredible team and all of our pre flight hardware and software simulations!

• Collaborate with system engineers and other stakeholders to define test requirements and objectives.
• Develop comprehensive test plans and procedures for hardware-in-the-loop testing.
• Design and configure test environments using simulation and emulation tools.
• Define and integrate test equipment, interfaces, and instrumentation necessary for HITL testing.
• Execute hardware-in-the-loop tests according to defined test plans and procedures.
• Monitor and analyze test results, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of data.
• Identify and troubleshoot anomalies or issues that arise during testing.
• Collaborate with other engineers to investigate and resolve any identified problems.
• Develop and maintain simulation models, emulators, and interfaces to accurately replicate satellite systems and their interfaces.
• Configure and program test equipment, such as sensors, actuators, and communication interfaces.
• Implement and validate real-time simulation and emulation environments for satellite subsystems.
• Collaborate with software engineers to develop test automation scripts and tools.
• Data Analysis and Reporting:
• Analyze test data, identify trends, and generate meaningful insights and conclusions.
• Prepare comprehensive test reports, including detailed analysis, observations, and recommendations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to communicate test results and provide inputs for system improvement.
• Process Improvement and Innovation:
• Continuously improve HITL testing methodologies, tools, and processes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies related to HITL testing.
• Contribute to research and development projects aimed at advancing HITL testing capabilities.

• U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data.
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field. Master's degree is a plus.
• 6+ years of proven experience in hardware-in-the-loop testing, preferably in the aerospace or satellite industry.
• At least 2 years of managing a team.
• Strong knowledge of simulation and emulation tools (e.g., Simulink, LabVIEW, OPAL-RT) and real-time software platforms.
• Familiarity with satellite systems and subsystems, including communication, power, attitude control, and payload systems.
• Experience in designing and implementing test environments using simulation models and emulators.
• Proficiency in programming languages, such as MATLAB, Python, or C/C++.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet project deadlines.
• Proven ability to work in fast-paced and dynamic testing environment while delivering results.

Salary Range: $175,000 - $215,000+ a year

The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base salary range and excludes additional benefits. If your salary requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply.

Benefits

Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We offer the following benefits:

• Shared upside: receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create.  

• Best-in-class healthcare, dental, vision plans. The primary and dependents’ premium is 99%+ covered. 

• Enjoy our comprehensive PTO package, to reset and recharge.

• Competitive 401(k) plan and matching.   

• Paid parental leave. 

• Daily lunch and unlimited snacks!

• Community events like monthly office BBQs, pickleball tournaments, a run club and more!

• Your dream desk setup, tools, and whatever else you need to be your most productive self. 

• A world class office located in Playa Vista, filled with amazing coworkers and social gatherings for you and your family. 

• An opportunity to make a real impact in the aerospace industry.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.