Senior Instrument Systems Engineer
Muon Space is seeking a Senior Instrument Systems Engineer to join our team in Mountain View, CA, focusing on the development of infrared remote sensing instruments. This role is integral to our instrument engineering team, driving projects from initial concept through to on-orbit operations. The ideal candidate is a self-motivated engineer with a versatile skill set, comfortable working across various technical depths, from individual components to system-level integration.
Key responsibilities include developing instrument concepts of operations, radiometric models, transmission budgets, and scene observation geometry models, integrating these with mission simulation tools. The role also involves managing technical budgets—such as mass, power, thermal, line-of-sight pointing/jitter, and data volume—to ensure adequate margins throughout development. Additionally, the engineer will develop comprehensive interface control documents across mechanical, thermal, electrical, and software interfaces to drive a modular instrument architecture.
The position requires a B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. in an engineering field, or equivalent experience, with at least 5 years of experience in a multi-disciplinary environment involving imaging systems, infrared remote sensing instruments, and spacecraft. Proficiency in software languages such as Python, Julia, or C++ is essential. Experience with STOP analysis, root cause analysis, data analysis, post-processing, and test report generation is also required. Excellent communication, presentation, and organizational skills are necessary, along with a readiness to work in a fast-paced environment with new challenges each week.
The salary range for this role is $184,000 to $223,000, complemented by a competitive equity grant and comprehensive benefits package. Final compensation will be based on skills, qualifications, experience, and geographic location as assessed during the interview process. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability and life insurance, three weeks of paid vacation for new employees, 12 paid holidays, unlimited sick time, and paid parental leave.
Founded in 2021, Muon Space is an end-to-end Space Systems Provider that designs, builds, and operates LEO satellite constellations delivering mission-critical data. Our integrated technology stack enables customers to optimize every dimension of their missions for faster time-to-orbit and superior constellation remote sensing performance. Our state-of-the-art facility in Silicon Valley is optimized for manufacturing spacecraft and rapid, flexible payload integration at scale. From climate monitoring to national security, Muon Space is dedicated to delivering Earth Intelligence for a safer and more resilient world.