Join to apply for the Senior Payload Design Engineer role at Interstellar Lab

Full-time
In-person or hybrid

At Interstellar Lab, our mission is to build a future full of life, on Earth and beyond. We design autonomous biospheric systems to grow plants with precision, on Earth and in Space. Our AI‑powered BioPods and BioCapsules leverage biosciences to reproduce and optimize growth conditions for a wide variety of high‑value plants, while collaborating with agencies and private companies to develop biofarming units that advance life science research in microgravity.

About the Role

As Senior Payload Design Engineer, you will be responsible for the design, development, and integration of experimental payloads for near‑Earth and orbital missions, including our current collaboration with VAST. The role spans concept definition, mechanical and systems design, testing, and mission operations. Working with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, you will ensure that payloads meet mission objectives, safety requirements, and performance targets.

Responsibilities

• Lead payload design and integration from concept to flight operations
• Define and manage system and interface requirements across disciplines
• Conduct testing, verification, and validation of flight hardware
• Support mission planning and coordination with launch providers
• Ensure compliance with commercial spaceflight and safety standards
• Resolve technical issues during assembly and qualification phases
• Maintain technical documentation, reports, and configuration updates
• Participate in design reviews and continuous system optimization

Qualifications

• Master's degree in mechanical, aerospace, or systems engineering
• 6+ years of experience in payload or flight hardware design for space missions
• Strong understanding of mechanical and fluidic systems, structures, and electronics packaging
• Proficiency in 3D CAD modeling and assembly management
• Knowledge of testing, qualification, and certification standards for spaceflight
• Experience in payload integration and mission coordination with launch providers
• Excellent communication and cross‑functional teamwork skills
• Prior experience with NASA, ESA, or commercial programs such as SpaceX or Blue Origin preferred

Equal Opportunity

Interstellar Lab is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Interstellar Lab does not discriminate on the basis of race, regional color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.