Lead Launch Engineer at Apex in Los Angeles, CA

Job description

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge. For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles. Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more. We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet. About the Role Apex is seeking an experienced, organized, and driven Lead Launch Engineer to join our expanding team. As a company at the forefront of space exploration and satellite technology, Apex is looking for an individual capable of owning complex spacecraft missions and serving as the primary technical liaison between our internal teams and launch providers while also leading launch campaigns. The Lead Launch Engineer is responsible for setting up companywide launch integration processes to ensure our vehicles launch reliably, as well as mentoring, tasking, and directing the launch engineering team. This role balances long term strategic mission planning with short term technical execution, split roughly fifty percent management and fifty percent individual contributor work. We are looking for someone who solves complex launch integration challenges with a focus on practicality and scalability, works well across teams, and thrives in a dynamic, fast-paced aerospace environment. Responsibilities: • Manage and coordinate the integration of satellite payloads with various launch vehicles, including propulsion loading and separation system integration. • Work closely with launch providers to define mission requirements, interfaces, and integration schedules. • Develop and maintain satellite launch plans, procedures, and readiness reviews. • Oversee satellite transportation, handling, and pre-launch processing at launch sites. • Ensure compatibility between the satellite and launch vehicle, including mechanical, electrical, and environmental interfaces. • Support environmental testing (vibration, thermal vacuum, EMI/EMC) to validate satellite launch readiness. • Conduct system-level checkouts and troubleshooting during pre-launch and countdown operations. • Interface with regulatory agencies to secure launch approvals and compliance with international spaceflight standards. • Provide real-time technical support during launch campaigns, including anomaly resolution. • Collaborate with internal teams, including mechanical, avionics, and systems engineers, to optimize satellite integration processes. Requirements: • U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data. • Bachelor's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. • At least 7 years of experience in spacecraft/launch vehicle integration, mission integration, or launch operations. • Experience working with launch vehicle providers. • Previous launch campaign ownership. • Hands-on experience with satellite testing, integration, and environmental qualification. • Proven track record of managing complex projects with multiple interdependent tasks. Preferred: • Leadership experience in satellite manufacturing or a related industry (aerospace, defense, or high-tech). • Experience mentoring or directing an engineering team. • Familiarity with AFSPCMAN 91-710 submittal processes. • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other office productivity tools. #LI-RC1 Why Join Apex? Apex believes in creating a work environme