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SES Satellites · 20 hours ago

Director or VP, meoSphere Chief Engineer - Satellite - title TBD

McLean, VA

Full-time

Hybrid

Director/Executive

10+ years exp

SES Satellites is seeking a Director, meoSphere Space Segment to oversee the design, integration, testing, and launch functions of their next generation MEO constellation. The role involves leading a cross-disciplinary team to ensure the satellite systems meet performance, reliability, and cost requirements while fostering innovation and modern execution approaches.

Communications InfrastructureHardwareSatellite CommunicationTelecommunicationsWired Telecommunications

No H1B

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Serve as the overall technical authority for the integrated meoSphere satellite, partnering with colleagues responsible for the communications payload, end-to-end systems engineering, manufacturing, satellite operations, and launch systems to deliver a constellation of MEO satellites that meet the needs of the business

Lead satellite system-level design trades, requirements allocation, and interface definition between the spacecraft bus and the communications payload for early on-orbit pathfinder missions and full production iterations. Participate in payload subsystem development reviews (RF, digital, software, power, thermal, mechanical), ensuring compatibility with the bus architecture and mission requirements

Provide technical oversight of the bus contractor and major satellite bus-related suppliers, including development of system specifications, test requirements, ICDs, statements of work and other contractual documents. Own and drive supplier management and satellite bus acceptance process

Follow the payload and supplier bus development programs to ensure compliance to system, performance, and programmatic specifications; work creatively and cross-functionally to ensure design consistency, manage technical risks, and drive resolution of cross-disciplinary issues affecting system performance or mission assurance

Work closely with the systems engineering, payload development, and integration and test teams to ensure the constellation and satellite functions as a fully integrated component of the end-to-end system

Define and lead all satellite-level test plans and programs including payload-bus AIT, environmental testing, launch campaign readiness, and in-orbit testing and commissioning. Coordinate with the Space Procurement team to develop a constellation launch strategy that meets the cost and schedule requirements; interface with the launch service provider and support all launch campaign activities

Work closely with the Satellite Manufacturing lead to design production assembly, integration, and test (AI&T) flows, unit test, and satellite test programs in the context of series production at the primary or auxiliary production facilities in Europe and the US

Serve as chair or key reviewer for satellite bus and integrated satellite-level technical reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, etc.)

Foster a culture of innovation, speed, and accountability, leveraging iterative development, rapid prototyping, and continuous learning. Integrate best practices from the new space industry: agile development, modular architecture, fail fast, lean processes, and commercial-grade supply chains

Implement and utilize modern tools and digital engineering approaches, including AI/ML, collaboration tools, MBSE platforms, and digital twins to manage performance vs cost, schedules, and risks

Lead in building a new way of design, development and manufacturing of constellation systems with the ability to verticalize and exercise design, financial and schedule control for the space segment

Qualification

Satellite system designPayload-bus integrationAgile developmentTechnical leadershipAerospace engineeringSystems engineeringLEO/MEO/GEO systemsStakeholder engagementTeam buildingInnovationCommunication

Required

Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related discipline

10+ years of technical leadership experience in aerospace, communications, or related technology industries, with demonstrated leadership in building teams, innovating technology and methods, with demonstrated success in those roles

Proven ability to lead highly technical, multi-disciplinary teams

Deep understanding of LEO/MEO/GEO payload and satellite systems, vertical integration, and launch campaigns

Demonstrated success using agile, iterative development methods in a fast-paced, high-growth environment

Familiarity with new space tools, methods, and practices—COTS hardware, streamlined mission assurance, and vertical integration strategies

Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and executive reporting skills

Willingness to undergo clearance process

Willingness to work at least 60% onsite from office

Able to travel nationally & internationally