Cowboy Space – Senior Spacecraft Engineer

Official Role Description: Cowboy Space

Senior Spacecraft Engineer Cowboy Space Corp. is building the infrastructure to power and connect the orbital economy. Our satellites operate in Low Earth Orbit to collect sunlight and enable a new class of capabilities—from transmitting energy via infrared lasers (space-to-earth and space-to-space), to powering on-orbit compute, to delivering secure, high-bandwidth optical data. By rethinking how energy and data are generated and distributed in space, we’re unlocking entirely new ways to operate both in orbit and on Earth.Founded in 2024 by Baiju Bhatt (co-founder of Robinhood), Cowboy Space Corp. is backed by leading investors and built by a team from top aerospace and defense organizations. We’re moving quickly to solve complex technical challenges and build a new category of space infrastructure.About the Role:We are looking for a Senior Spacecraft Engineer to help design, build, and integrate the core systems that power our satellite platform. You will work across spacecraft subsystems—including structures, power, thermal, and avionics—to develop reliable, high-performance systems that operate in the harsh environment of space.This is a high-growth role with the opportunity to gain ownership quickly and work closely with a multidisciplinary team spanning software, electrical, optical, and mechanical engineering.Responsibilities:Design, develop, and integrate spacecraft subsystems, including structures, power, thermal, and avionicsOwn components of the spacecraft architecture, from early design through integration and testPerform system-level trade studies to optimize performance, mass, power, and reliabilitySupport development of spacecraft layouts, CAD models, and system schematicsPlan and execute integration and test campaigns, including subsystem and full vehicle testingDevelop and maintain technical documentation, including requirements, interface control documents (ICDs), and test plansCollaborate cross-functionally with software, electrical, optical, and GNC teams to ensure system-level performanceSupport environmental testing and validation, including thermal-vacuum, vibration, and EMI/EMC testingParticipate in design reviews (PDR, CDR) and contribute to system-level decision makingBasic Qualifications:3–5 years of experience in spacecraft, aerospace, or mechanical, or electrical engineering (internships and relevant projects count)Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related fieldExperience with spacecraft subsystems (structures, power, thermal, avionics, or similar)Familiarity with design tools in your field.Exposure to one or more of the following:Spacecraft design or satellite systemsHardware integration and testingThermal or structural analysisEmbedded or avionics systemsStrong fundamentals in engineering analysis, system design, and problem-solvingEagerness to learn and operate in a fast-paced, ambiguous environmentPreferred Qualifications:Experience working on spacecraft or aerospace vehicle development programs (internship, academic, or industry)Hands-on experience with hardware integration, assembly, and testingFamiliarity with environmental testing (thermal-vacuum, vibration, shock, EMI/EMC)Experience performing trade studies and system-level optimizationExposure to power systems, thermal systems, or structural analysis in aerospace applicationsFamiliarity with GNC systems, orbital mechanics, or mission design considerationsExperience with CAD, FEA, or thermal modeling tools (e.g., ANSYS, Thermal Desktop)Experience working on high-reliability or safety-critical systems with strong validation practicesDemonstrated ability to take ownership of complex engineering problems from concept through testingPrior experience at a space, aerospace, or deep tech organizationStrong interest in space systems, energy infrastructure, and building novel orbital capabilitiesCompensation and BenefitsThe salary range for this position is $150,000 – $200,000 annually. The actual base salary offered will depend on factors such as job-related skills, experience, qualifications, and internal equity.Equity in Cowboy Space Corp.Employees and their eligible dependents may enroll in medical, dental, and vision insurance401(k) retirement savings planPaid time off10 paid holidays per calendar yearPaid parental leaveRelocation assistance if applicableDaily lunch in the office and a fully stocked kitchen with beverages and snacksITAR RequirementsExport Control Requirement: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here.DisclaimerThis job description is a summary of the primary duties and responsibilities of the job and position. It is not intended to be a comprehensive or all-inclusive listing of duties and responsibilities. Contents are subject to change at Cowboy Space Corp.’s discretion.Cowboy Space Corp. is an equal employment opportunity employer. We consider individuals for employment or promotion according to their skills, abilities and experience. Cowboy Space Corp. is committed to complying with all applicable laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religious creed, age, national origin, ancestry, physical, mental or developmental disability, sex (which includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and medical conditions relating to pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding), veteran status, military status, marital or registered domestic partnership status, medical condition (including cancer or genetic characteristics), genetic information, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, as well as any other category protected by federal, state or local laws.