Chief Engineer

Join Astrion LLC as Chief Engineer / Lead Systems Engineer
Location: Kirtland AFB, NM
Clearance: Active DoD Security Clearance Required

Astrion LLC is seeking a dynamic and visionary Chief Engineer / Lead Systems Engineer to support the Air Force Research Laboratory's (AFRL) Research and development Integrated Space Experiments (RISE) contract. This role is central to advancing AFRL's space innovation efforts and achieving mission objectives in collaboration with the RISE Program Management Office at Kirtland AFB.

This is a high-impact leadership position for an experienced systems engineer who thrives at the intersection of innovation, technical execution, and program strategy.

• Lead engineering efforts in space vehicle design, development, fabrication, assembly, integration, and test

• Oversee launch integration and mission operations from concept through execution

• Support full lifecycle mission development-including flight software, satellite autonomy, and operational systems

• Collaborate directly with AFRL stakeholders and contractor teams to drive engineering innovation and systems integration

• Provide senior-level technical oversight and mentorship across active and future space programs

As the Chief Engineer, you will serve as the primary engineering authority within the Program Management Office. You will:

• Architect engineering solutions across multiple contracts and initiatives

• Apply advanced systems engineering (SE) principles in fast-paced, R&D-driven environments

• Lead and guide systems reviews, technical briefs, and test/inspection reports

• Drive innovation in satellite design, software autonomy, and mission resiliency

• Collaborate with AI&T teams, clean room operations, and multidisciplinary engineers

• Deliver high-quality technical documentation and support proposal development

• Proven leadership in DoD space systems with at least 10 years of systems engineering experience

• Deep knowledge of SE concepts, engineering methodologies, and R&D best practices

• Master's degree in a STEM discipline from an accredited institution

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a collaborative mindset

• Ability to balance hands-on engineering with strategic program-level influence

• Active and transferrable DoD security clearance (U.S. Citizenship required)

• Ability to work on-site at Kirtland AFB and travel as needed

• Experience with:

  • Satellite operations and autonomy systems

  • Engineering peer and safety reviews

  • Mentorship of junior engineers

  • Project planning, technical writing, and cross-functional coordination

• DAWIA Level 3 Systems Engineering certification or equivalent continuing education

• Background in space acquisition (SPRDE) and mission areas such as MilSatCom, PNT, ISR, or SDA

• Familiarity with rapid prototyping, cloud environments, artificial intelligence, and resilient space architectures

Why Astrion?
We are shaping the future of space systems-delivering rapid, innovative solutions that support national defense and cutting-edge research. Join us and play a leading role in missions that matter.

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