Senior Payload Engineer

Company: Turion Space
Location: Irvine
Posted on: February 14, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description At Turion Space, we’re building spacecraft to secure Earth and expand humanity’s reach beyond it. As a Senior Payload Engineer you will lead the design, system trades, integration, and testing of both Independent Research and Development (IRAD) and hosted payload projects. You will also be responsible for interfacing with the systems engineering team to ensure requirements compliance of our spacecraft payloads. This is a full-time , exempt position based on-site at our Irvine, California headquarters. Key Responsibilities Design and Development: Independently own the design and development of payload systems, including but not limited to defining system requirements, conducting analysis on system performance, and driving the determination of system specifications. Integration: Integrate payload systems into Turion’s spacecraft platform. Ensure compatibility and successful integration of payloads with spacecraft systems and subsystems. Testing: Develop and execute test plans for payload systems. Conduct performance testing, including functional, environmental, and operational tests, to ensure payloads meet mission requirements. Analysis: Perform system analysis and simulations to assess payload performance and reliability. Use modeling and simulation tools to predict and assess payload behavior. Documentation: Prepare and maintain comprehensive documentation for payload systems or operational software, including design reports, test plans, and technical specifications. Ensure all documentation is accurate and compliant with industry standards. Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including hardware engineers, software engineers, systems engineers, and mission planners, to coordinate payload development efforts as well as address and resolve integration and performance issues. Work with business development to drive proposals Support: Assist operations as the payload subject matter expert. Provide technical support during payload integration and testing phases. Address and resolve issues that arise during system development and mission execution. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace/Astronautical Engineering, Computer Systems, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics or a related field. 5 years of experience in an Aerospace, Payload, or Electrical Engineering role with a primary focus on optics, sensor development, scientific instrument development and/or research & development projects. Experience working with aerospace or space technology sectors, including understanding of the unique requirements and challenges associated with payload systems for space missions. Proficiency with engineering tools and software for simulation and analysis (e.g. Python, Matlab, CAD, Zeemax and/or FreeFlyer). Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to address complex technical challenges and develop effective solutions. High level of accuracy and attention to detail in designing, testing, and documenting payload systems. Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly and collaborate effectively with team members and stakeholders. Must be able to obtain a Secret and/or a TS/SCI clearance. Preferred Skills and Experience Master’s degree in Aerospace/Astronautical Engineering, Computer Systems, Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics or a related field. Strong knowledge of payload system and/or software/electrical design, integration, and testing. Experience designing, developing and testing robotics or spacecraft perception and computer vision systems Experience in image processing and computer vision for object detection or radiometric analysis Experience with Electro-Optical payload development, integration and testing Proven ability to drive innovation and improvements in payload systems design and integration processes. Available to work extended hours and weekends as needed to meet critical deadlines Senior Payload Engineer: $140,000 - $180,000 USD ITAR Requirements: This position may include access to technology and/or software source code that is subject to U.S. export controls. To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Benefits: We offer a comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of our employees. In addition to a competitive base salary and company stock, determined by factors such as job-related knowledge, education, skills, experience, and market demand, full-time employees are eligible for:? Equity: Receive equity in Turion Space, letting you benefit from the company's success Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their dependents. ? Retirement Plans: Access to a 401(k) plan to help you plan for your future. ? Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, personal days, sick days, and holidays to ensure you have time to recharge. ? Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing training, workshops, and courses to advance your skills and career growth. Team Building Activities: Regular social events, team outings, and company-sponsored activities to foster a positive work environment. ? We are dedicated to providing a supportive and enriching environment for our team members, recognizing that our collective success is built upon the well-being and satisfaction of each individual. Turion Space is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Turion Space is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, 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. Compensation Range: $140K - $180K

Keywords: Turion Space, Rancho Cucamonga , Senior Payload Engineer, Engineering , Irvine, California