Spacecraft HITL Engineer

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. 

As a HITL Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and executing hardware-in-the-loop testing strategies to validate and verify the performance, functionality, and reliability of satellite systems. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of engineers and technicians to design and implement realistic test environments using simulation and emulation tools. Your expertise and attention to detail will play a critical role in ensuring the successful deployment of satellite systems.

• →

  Collaborate with system engineers and other stakeholders to define test requirements and objectives.

• →

  Develop comprehensive test plans and procedures for hardware-in-the-loop testing.

• →

  Design and configure test environments using simulation and emulation tools.

• →

  Define and integrate test equipment, interfaces, and instrumentation necessary for HITL testing.

• →

  Execute hardware-in-the-loop tests according to defined test plans and procedures.

• →

  Monitor and analyze test results, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of data.

• →

  Identify and troubleshoot anomalies or issues that arise during testing.

• →

  Collaborate with other engineers to investigate and resolve any identified problems.

• →

  Develop and maintain simulation models, emulators, and interfaces to accurately replicate satellite systems and their interfaces.

• →

  Configure and program test equipment, such as sensors, actuators, and communication interfaces.

• →

  Implement and validate real-time simulation and emulation environments for satellite subsystems.

• →

  Collaborate with software engineers to develop test automation scripts and tools.

• Analyze test data, identify trends, and generate meaningful insights and conclusions.

• Prepare comprehensive test reports, including detailed analysis, observations, and recommendations.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to communicate test results and provide inputs for system improvement.

• Continuously improve HITL testing methodologies, tools, and processes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

• Stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies related to HITL testing.

• Contribute to research and development projects aimed at advancing HITL testing capabilities.

• U.S. Person status is required as this position needs to access export controlled data.

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field. Master's degree is a plus.

• 3-6 years of proven experience in hardware-in-the-loop testing, preferably in the aerospace or satellite industry.

• Strong knowledge of simulation and emulation tools (e.g., Simulink, LabVIEW, OPAL-RT) and real-time software platforms.

• Familiarity with satellite systems and subsystems, including communication, power, attitude control, and payload systems.

• Experience in designing and implementing test environments using simulation models and emulators.

• Proficiency in programming languages, such as MATLAB, Python, or C/C++.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen attention to detail.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders.

• Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet project deadlines.

• Proven ability to work in fast-paced and dynamic testing environment while delivering results.

#LI-AL1

Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.