Lead Launch Engineer

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.
• Hands-on experience with satellite testing, integration, and environmental qualification.
• Proven track record of managing complex projects with multiple interdependent tasks.

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.

Requirements

• Experience working with launch vehicle providers.
• Previous launch campaign ownership.

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 environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup that has raised more than $500M in funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.

Shared upside

Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create

Best-in-class healthcare

100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost

Comprehensive PTO package

Starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays

Competitive 401(k) plan

Generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%

8 weeks paid parental leave

Plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel

Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks

To keep you fueled throughout the day

Vibrant community

Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family

Your dream desk setup

All the tools you need to be your most productive self

World-class Playa Vista office

With the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life

Real impact opportunity

Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference

Additional Information

Compensation ranges are set by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. A candidate's specific level and base pay are determined case by case and may vary with job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities, and internal equity. Beyond base salary, full-time hires are also eligible for long-term incentives in the form of stock options, along with medical, dental, and vision coverage and a 401(k) retirement plan.

ITAR Requirements

Apex's work is governed by U.S. export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). To be eligible for this role, applicants must either (1) qualify as a U.S. Person, meaning a U.S. citizen or national, a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), a refugee admitted under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or an individual granted asylum under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or (2) be able to obtain the required export authorizations from the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Department of Commerce, or another applicable U.S. government agency. You can learn more about ITAR here

Equal Opportunity Employer

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.