Spacecraft Payload Engineer - Embedded Systems

The Space Software Team at HawkEye 360 is looking for a curious, hands-on engineer who wants to work directly with spacecraft hardware and software. You’ll configure payload hardware for spacecraft integration, run and troubleshoot software-driven tests, and support the lab systems and flatsats we use to develop and validate our payloads. You’ll work closely with Software, FPGA, Electrical, and AI&T engineers, giving you the opportunity to learn how the entire payload works from development through launch and on-orbit operations.

We’re looking for someone with a strong foundation in Python and Linux who enjoys getting their hands on hardware, digging into problems, and learning new technologies.

This role requires on-site work in our Herndon, VA office at least 4 days per week.

Your main responsibilities will be:

• Configure and prepare payload hardware and software for spacecraft integration, including programming and flashing embedded devices.
• Run and troubleshoot software-driven tests on flight and lab hardware.
• Maintain and troubleshoot payload flatsats, Ground Support Equipment (GSE), and lab test setups.
• Investigate hardware and software issues using logs, telemetry, schematics, and lab equipment.
• Work across engineering teams to diagnose problems and drive them to resolution.
• Develop and improve test tools, automation, and lab capabilities as you learn the system.

Skills and Qualifications:

• B.S. in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• 2+ years of relevant engineering experience.
• Strong working knowledge of Python and Linux .
• Experience working with electronic or embedded systems.
• Familiarity with electrical schematics and hardware interfaces such as CAN, SPI, I2C, UART, or Ethernet.
• Strong troubleshooting skills, curiosity, and a desire to work hands-on with hardware.

Desirable:

• C/C++ experience.
• Experience with lab equipment, automated testing, or hardware-in-the-loop systems.
• Experience with embedded Linux, SDR/RF, or FPGA-based systems.
• Soldering, cabling, or electronics rework experience.
• Git and CI/CD experience.
• Spacecraft or satellite operations experience.

We offer a compensation package that includes a competitive base salary plus annual performance bonus, benefits and equity. We consider many factors when determining salary offers, such as candidate's work experience, education, training & skills, as well as market and business considerations. We are also open to considering candidates with experience and qualifications at a different level than required in a job posting, which may affect the compensation package offered.

Salary Range $70,000 — $115,000 USD

Company Overview:

HawkEye 360 is equipping defense, intelligence, and national security leaders with mission-critical signals intelligence to enable faster, better decision making. By detecting, geolocating, and characterizing radio frequency emissions worldwide, HawkEye 360 delivers trusted domain awareness and early warning indicators to the US Government and allied partners. Our space-based collection, proprietary signal processing, and AI-powered analytics transform knowledge of RF spectrum into a strategic advantage. Proven by operational mission success, HawkEye 360 is redefining how signals intelligence strengthens national and global security.