Principal Space Systems Architect

Principal Space Systems Architect – Radiation Effects

Phoenix, Arizona (Flex/On-site options available)

225-255K + Bonus + Paid Relocation 

Distinguished Member of the Technical Staff 

9/80 schedule

Aerospace & Defense / Space Systems TS/SCI with Polygraph (Preferred / Ability to Obtain) 

We are seeking a Principal Space Systems Architect to serve as the senior technical authority for radiation effects and survivability. In this role, you will lead the engineering strategy for a diverse portfolio of high-technology solutions that enable mission success across all domains of space operation.

Responsibilities

Architectural Leadership: Act as the primary architect for radiation survivability, leading efforts to ensure space systems meet performance objectives in the most challenging radiation environments.

• Technology Roadmap Ownership: Drive the integration of advanced capabilities and radiation-hardened technologies into product roadmaps, ensuring our solutions are ready for "tomorrow’s hard problems."

• Advanced Modeling & Analysis: Utilize deep subject matter expertise to oversee modeling and analysis of natural space radiation environments, providing high-level guidance on mitigation at both the component and system levels.

• Process Innovation: Validate and establish new engineering radiation effects processes to improve performance, reliability, and affordability across the enterprise.

• Strategic Mentorship: Serve as a cornerstone of the technical staff, mentoring junior and mid-level engineers to expand the organization’s subject matter expertise.

• Commercial Integration: Lead the complex effort of integrating commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) technology into high-reliability, high-availability space systems.

Qualifications

• Education: * Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or a related Science/Engineering/Mathematics field.

• Professional Experience: * 15+ years of job-related experience with a Bachelor’s degree.

  • OR 13+ years of job-related experience with a Master’s degree.

• Domain Expertise: * Proven track record in radiation effects mitigation and system-level survivability.

  • Extensive experience with natural space radiation environments and nuclear radiation effects (TID, SEE, ELDRS).

• Security & Citizenship: * Must be a U.S. Citizen.

  • Active Department of Defense TS/SCI security clearance with Polygraph is preferred at time of hire; must be able to obtain one within a reasonable timeframe.

What Sets You Apart

• Visionary Thinking: A creative and innovative mindset with a proven desire to drive change within the defense and scientific arenas.

• Expert Integration: Demonstrated experience bridging the gap between cutting-edge commercial technology and the rigorous demands of high-reliability space missions.

• Commitment to Excellence: A deep commitment to ongoing professional development and a passion for fostering a high-performance team environment.

Workplace Environment & Perks

• Innovation Hub: Join a premier engineering team in the Greater Phoenix area, a major center for aerospace and defense excellence.

• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a 9/80 schedule (every other Friday off) and a flexible work environment.

• Comprehensive Benefits: Includes competitive base salary, 401k matching, flexible time off, and paid parental leave.

• Mission-Driven Work: Engage in research-oriented work alongside award-winning teams developing practical solutions for our nation’s security.