Director, meoSphere Space Segment (McLean, VA, US)

Director, meoSphere Space Segment
ROLE DESCRIPTION
The Director, meoSphere Space Segment for SES's next generation MEO constellation is responsible for the overall MEO satellite system design, integration, test, and launch functions. The role ensures that the overall satellite design meets system performance, reliability, cost, and schedule requirements and is compatible with launch systems and operational processes.
This position requires a deep understanding of space-craft systems engineering, payload-bus integration, satellite-level testing (ground and in-orbit), launch operations. The role requires cross-disciplinary leadership to manage a distributed team of internal engineers, ex-ternal suppliers, and mission partners. The Director, Space Segment provides technical direction for the integrated satellite across all lifecycle phases, from early on-orbit pathfinder test missions, through design, integration, test, launch, and on-orbit operations of production systems.
You will be reporting to the SVP, MEO Programmes. You will manage a team and be responsible for driving program success through innovative, modern execution approaches inspired by the 'new space' ecosystem, rather than traditional aerospace playbooks.
As Director, meoSphere Space Segment, you will be responsible to :

• Serve as the overall technical authority for the integrated meoSphere satellite, partnering with colleagues responsible for the communications payload, end-to-end systems engineering, manufacturing, satellite operations, and launch systems to deliver a constellation of MEO satellites that meet the needs of the business.
• Lead satellite system-level design trades, requirements allocation, and interface definition between the spacecraft bus and the communications payload for early on-orbit pathfinder missions and full production iterations. Participate in payload subsystem development reviews (RF, digital, software, power, thermal, mechanical), ensuring compatibility with the bus architecture and mission requirements.
• Provide technical oversight of the bus contractor and major satellite bus-related suppliers, including development of system specifications, test requirements, ICDs, statements of work and other contractual documents. Own and drive supplier management and satellite bus acceptance process.
• Follow the payload and supplier bus development programs to ensure compliance to system, performance, and programmatic specifications; work creatively and cross-functionally to ensure design consistency, manage technical risks, and drive resolution of cross-disciplinary issues affecting system performance or mission assurance.
• Work closely with the systems engineering, payload development, and integration and test teams to ensure the constellation and satellite functions as a fully integrated component of the end-to-end system.
• Define and lead all satellite-level test plans and programs including payload-bus AIT, environmental testing, launch campaign readiness, and in-orbit testing and commissioning. Coordinate with the Space Procurement team to develop a constellation launch strategy that meets the cost and schedule requirements; interface with the launch service provider and support all launch campaign activities.
• Work closely with the Satellite Manufacturing lead to design production assembly, integration, and test (AI&T) flows, unit test, and satellite test programs in the context of series production at the primary or auxiliary production facilities in Europe and the US.
• Serve as chair or key reviewer for satellite bus and integrated satellite-level technical reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, etc.).
• Foster a culture of innovation, speed, and accountability, leveraging iterative development, rapid prototyping, and continuous learning. Integrate best practices from the new space industry: agile development, modular architecture, fail fast, lean processes, and commercial-grade supply chains.
• Implement and utilize modern tools and digital engineering approaches, including AI/ML, collaboration tools, MBSE platforms, and digital twins to manage performance vs cost, schedules, and risks.
• Lead in building a new way of design, development and manufacturing of constellation systems with the ability to verticalize and exercise design, financial and schedule control for the space segment.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of technical leadership experience in aerospace, communications, or related technology industries, with demonstrated leadership in building teams, innovating technology and methods, with demonstrated success in those roles.
• Proven ability to lead highly technical, multi-disciplinary teams.
• Deep understanding of LEO/MEO/GEO payload and satellite systems, vertical integration, and launch campaigns.
• Demonstrated success using agile, iterative development methods in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
• Familiarity with new space tools, methods, and practices-COTS hardware, streamlined mission assurance, and vertical integration strategies.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and executive reporting skills.

OTHER KEY REQUIREMENTS

• Willingness to undergo clearance process
• Willingness to work at least 60% onsite from office
• Able to travel nationally & internationally

The job responsibilities outlined in this document are not exhaustive and may evolve over time and be reviewed according to business needs.
SES and its Affiliated Companies are committed to providing fair and equal employment opportunities to all. We are an Equal Opportunity employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, protected veteran status, disability, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law.
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