Y Combinator Spacecraft Integration and Test Engineer
Summary
Leads integration and testing of spacecraft subsystems (avionics, power, propulsion) to ensure flight readiness, coordinating with engineering teams and executing rigorous environmental tests like thermal vacuum and vibration.
About the Company
At AstroForge, our mission is to make space resources accessible on Earth. We mine asteroids to extract valuable minerals in space at a lower cost and smaller carbon footprint than current terrestrial mining methods. We offer a unique opportunity to join an exciting team looking to expand humanity’s capabilities in space.
Job Description:
AstroForge is looking for a skilled Spacecraft Integration and Test Engineer to join our growing team. The chosen candidate will be responsible for integrating spacecraft subsystems into a flight-ready vehicle and verifying performance through rigorous testing, ensuring our missions launch on schedule and operate reliably in space.
Responsibilities:
- Lead and support the mechanical, electrical, and system integration of spacecraft subsystems, including structures, avionics, propulsion, power, and payloads
- Develop, execute, and document integration and test procedures for component, subsystem, and system-level testing
- Perform functional, environmental, and performance testing on spacecraft components and systems, including thermal vacuum, vibration, EMI/EMC, and acoustic testing
- Coordinate with systems engineering, avionics, and software teams to troubleshoot anomalies during integration and test campaigns
- Build and maintain ground support equipment (GSE) and test fixtures needed to support I&T activities
- Track and report test results, non-conformances, and corrective actions through the spacecraft's verification and validation process
- Support pre-launch operations, including final spacecraft checkout, fueling, and integration with the launch vehicle
- Maintain detailed records and documentation to ensure full traceability of test data and configuration changes
- Continuously improve integration and test processes, tooling, and procedures to increase efficiency and reliability
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
- Experience integrating and testing complex systems, in aerospace, aviation, automotive or a related field
- Familiarity with spacecraft subsystems such as avionics, power, propulsion, ADCS, or communications
- Experience with environmental testing (thermal vacuum, vibration, shock) and associated test equipment
- Working knowledge of electrical test equipment (multimeters, oscilloscopes, power supplies) and basic wiring/harness practices
- Ability to read and work from schematics, mechanical drawings, and interface control documents
- Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and comfort working hands-on with flight hardware
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced team environment
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings or weekends, during critical test and launch campaigns
Benefits
- 100% paid medical, dental, and life insurance coverage
- Vision and FSA benefits available
- 3 weeks of PTO + 1 week of sick time
- 10 paid Holidays
- Retirement savings plan – 401(k), with company match
- Equity on the ground floor of a startup
Salary
- Level 2: $110,500 - $138,650
- Level 3: $135,500 - $172,000
- Equity on the ground floor of a startup
ITAR Requirements
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S.,protected individual as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15) or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.