Freelance Satellite Systems Engineer

About the role

We are looking for a Freelance Satellite Systems Engineer to lead the systems team for a next‑generation small‑satellite programme. You will translate mission concepts into a fully operational spacecraft, ensuring technical excellence across all subsystems while working remotely.

Key responsibilities

• Own the complete system‑engineering lifecycle from concept definition to on‑orbit readiness.
• Translate mission objectives into system requirements, architecture, and interface definitions.
• Develop and manage verification & validation (V&V) strategies and plans.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary teams and external suppliers, maintaining technical consistency.
• Lead technical reviews, trade‑off analyses, and key design decisions.
• Interface with programme management to align technical progress with project milestones.
• Support business development activities, including feasibility studies and proposal inputs.

Required profile

• Proven experience across the full spacecraft development lifecycle (concept to launch).
• Strong background in space systems engineering and ECSS standards, including tailoring.
• Experience with interface control, system integration, and verification & validation.
• Hands‑on experience with system‑level testing and integration activities.
• Ability to manage technical discussions with suppliers and partners.
• Excellent communication skills and structured, systems‑level thinking.

Required skills

• Space systems engineering
• ECSS standards
• Interface control
• System integration
• Verification & validation (V&V)
• System‑level testing
• AIV (Assembly, Integration & Verification)
• Small satellite platforms / NewSpace programmes
• Mission design and system architecture trade‑offs

What we offer

• Fully remote work with occasional travel to customer, supplier, or integration sites.
• Flexible freelance contract with a competitive daily rate.
• High level of technical ownership and autonomy.
• Opportunity to shape end‑to‑end satellite missions with experienced space professionals.