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Mission Manager, Space Lasers (Starshield)

SpaceX· Starshield Missions
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Hawthorne, CA$130k - $180kFull-timePosted 7mo ago

About the role

Role focused on ownership of design, testing, integration and on-orbit operations for the Starshield Mini Space Laser, enabling high-speed, low-latency laser communications for government use and space-based applications.

Responsibilities

  • Apply expertise to laser communication system development, including design, analysis, and validation.
  • Act as the primary point of contact for space lasers definition, requirements, and development.
  • Act as the representative of Starshield space lasers to the US Government, and as the responsible owner within SpaceX.
  • Participate in verification testing, including environmental qualification, performance characterization, reliability testing, and fault injection testing.
  • Represent the laser communications system in program-level, cross-disciplinary trades and issue resolution.
  • Define requirements for high-data-rate laser communication systems in challenging environmental conditions.
  • Interface with engineering, manufacturing and supply chain teams to ensure final designs can be produced in accordance with overall project goals.
  • Represent laser communications systems for reliability and risk discussions with internal reliability teams, management, customers, and vendors.
  • Ensure on-time deliverables, risk mitigation, and mission success.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering or science discipline.
  • 5+ years of hands-on laboratory or professional work experience in laser technology, electrical or mechanical systems, or testing.
  • Active Top Secret, Top Secret SCI, or DOE Level Q clearance.

Skills

Required:Laser communication system designVerification and testingSystems integrationGovernment liaison

Benefits

  • Base salary range $130,000.00 - $180,000.00 per year.
  • 10% differential for active clearance (up to an additional $20,000 annually) once briefed into a classified program.
  • Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage.
  • 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and other discounts/perks.
  • 3 weeks of paid vacation and 10+ paid holidays per year.
  • Paid sick leave as per company policy.
Last updated Jul 8, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

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