ALV-N Technical Lead (Solution Architect)

Role Overview
As a consulting ALV-N Technical Lead you’ll own the end-to-end systems engineering lifecycle for our missions, ensuring seamless integration of complex systems while mentoring teams and shaping our technical strategy.

Space Ocean’s ALV-N Technical Lead is responsible for every ALV-N satellite component made by Space Ocean: from complete satellites destined for LOE missions and various Solar System destinations, to the individual components and subsystems that make up an ALV-N satellite including: Nuclear Power Plan , flight software, reaction wheels and star trackers, separation systems, radios, and more. Our ALV-N team is made up of engineers, technicians, and designers and 3 Party Vendors who design, create, and assemble our own satellites for missions across the commercial, government, and defense sectors, or who make satellite hardware and software that supports other satellite missions. This position will report directly to the Senior Program/PMO Manager.

Key Responsibilities

• Will lead the ALV-N Technical Team
• Will ensure that Space Ocean ALV-N satellite meets all Nuclear Regulatory Requirements including but not limited to; filing of all required permits, coordination with all government agencies as part of design and build, and coordination with all Space Ocean 3 party partners and vendors
• Reporting to the Engineering PMO Manager ALV-N Technical Lead will join the Space Ocean Engineer Leadership in the development of a detailed Scope of Work and Project Plan to deliver all required ALV-N requirements on time and on budget
• The ALV-N Technical Lead will manage all Space Ocean technical personnel assigned to the ALV-N Program
• Working with the ALV-N Program Manager will coordinate all ALV-S operational and technical design and build requirements
• Will ensure the quality and regulatory compliance of all ALV-N designs and builds
• Working with the ALV-N Cost Accounting Manager will oversee the ALV-N development, build, launch, and post launch budget and spend.
• Will assist the ALV-N Program Manager in providing transparent status of the ALV-N Program work and budget in a Weekly Status Report to Engineering Management and contribute to a Monthly ALV-N Executive Review.
• Analyze cost and schedule data to produce improved processes and outcomes
• Facilitate cross-functional planning and project execution, ensuring the project is delivered on time, within budget, and consistent with business strategy and expectations.
• Identify key risks and collaboratively prepare a mitigation and contingency plan. Communicate with all levels of the organization the objectives, status, risks, and needs for the program.
• Identify opportunities for improving overall performance of the program.

What We’re Looking For - Required Qualifications

• Degree (Advance preferred), in Aerospace Engineering or equivalent.
• Extremely well versed in all aspects of Nuclear Regulatory requirements
• Managed/Contributed to a Space System development and build that resulted in a successful launch and orbit entry
• Demonstrable EDL (Entry, Descent, Land) experience
• A minimum of 15 years’ demonstrable experience in systems engineering, with 10+ in space systems, satellites, or the broader aerospace industry.
• Proven track record in Program Management and Collaborationtools (MSPP, JIRA, O365)
• Proven track record in Requirements Management tools (DOORS, Jama) and modeling tools (Cameo).
• Demonstrable experience in technical program financial management with projects exceeding $100M
• Passionate interest in the satellite industry
• Outstanding attention to detail and high-quality outputs
• Strong communication skills to effectively communicate at all levels of the organization enabling efficient decision-making
• Demonstrable experience with common satellite manufacturing and test processes
• Leadership experience in fast-paced, ambiguous environments.
• Proven track record in requirements management tools (DOORS, Jama) and modeling tools (Cameo).

Nice-to-Have - Preferred Qualifications

• Rendezvous, Proximity Operations, and Docking, RPOD
• Degree (Advance preferred) in Nuclear Engineering
• Managed technical teams of 20+
• Late Stage Start Up experience
• Experience with autonomous systems, fault management, or mission operations.
• Knowledge of space mission design, radiation hardening, and constellations.
• Familiarity with Agile/DevOps practices.

Why Join Us?
Equity stake in a high-growth startup.
Remote-friendly with flexible hours.
Cutting-edge tech: Work with advanced tools and platforms
Impact: Directly contribute to missions that redefine space sustainability.

Compensation:
Fractional ownership opportunity throughout the start-up phase. Transition to 1099 upon investor funding and contractual award.

Additional Information:
Candidates must be willing to undergo a background check and comply with US space regulations and security protocols.