Lead Payload Systems Engineer

Who Are We:

Sceye is a high-growth technology company, building the next generation of instant communications, imaging and remote sensing infrastructure through stratospheric platforms.

Our lighter-than-air high-altitude platform systems (LTA HAPS) are capable of maintaining position over an operational area in the stratosphere (altitudes of 18 – 21km). They can carry multiple telecommunications, imaging and remote sensing payloads, providing unique functionality, cost, environmental and societal advantages.

Our HAPS be deployed in a matter of days and at a fraction of the cost of traditional infrastructure solutions. This makes them an ideal solution for providing telecommunications connectivity, emergency solutions in the event of natural or other disasters, environmental and infrastructure monitoring, Earth observation and a range of defense applications.

Our customers & partners include some of the largest global telecommunications companies, infrastructure operators, climate researchers, civil and defense agencies.

At Sceye, we aim high, and we want you to join us at the stratospheric edge of innovation. As part of our mission-driven team, you’ll contribute to building breakthrough technologies that are changing the way we connect and observe the world. We are looking for individuals who bring not only deep expertise but also bold vision and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

About the Position:

The Lead Payload Systems Engineer will serve as the technical authority and systems/ integration lead for all payload systems onboard our High-Altitude Platform (HAPS). This role is responsible for end-to-end payload lifecycle - from requirements definition and interface design through integration, test, and flight readiness. The ideal candidate combines strong systems engineering fundamentals with hands-on experience in integrating multi-sensor or communications payloads into complex flight systems.

Lead Payload Systems Engineer will lead Sceye’s payload operations, overseeing the design, integration, testing, and deployment of mission payloads across multiple programs. You will be responsible for the entire payload lifecycle — from concept and development through flight operations and data delivery. The ideal candidate brings both systems-level thinking and hands-on technical expertise in aerospace payloads, instrumentation, or remote sensing systems.

What You’ll Do:

• Payload System Ownership
  • Lead the technical integration of all payloads (e.g., EO, telecom, hyperspectral, LiDAR, radar, or custom sensor systems) into the flight platform.
  • Define and maintain the payload-to-platform interface requirements (mechanical, electrical, data, thermal, and RF).
  • Ensure payload design meets platform-level performance, safety, and mission requirements.
• Develop and execute payload integration, verification, and validation (IV&V) plans for lab, ground, and flight environments.
• Coordinate payload integration testing — mechanical fit checks, EMI/EMC, thermal-vacuum, vibration, and functional performance.
• Lead troubleshooting, anomaly resolution, and root-cause analysis during integration and flight test campaigns.
• Cross-Functional Leadership
  • Collaborate closely with Systems Engineering, Avionics, Flight Operations, and Mission Planning teams to ensure seamless payload integration.
  • Act as primary technical interface with payload vendors, ensuring timely delivery and compliance with interface control documents (ICDs).
  • Drive design reviews (PDR, CDR, TRR) for payload subsystems and contribute to platform-level reviews.
• Documentation & Compliance
  • Own and maintain payload-related documentation: interface control documents (ICDs), configuration management, and test reports.
  • Ensure payloads meet applicable aerospace standards and regulatory requirements (FCC, FAA, ITAR/EAR, etc.).
  • Support creation of flight-readiness documentation and mission assurance reviews.
• Identify and implement design and process improvements that enhance payload integration efficiency, reduce mass/power budgets, and increase reliability.
• Contribute to system-level architecture studies for future payload capabilities and missions.

What We’re Looking For:

• Bachelor’s…