Job Description

An innovative space technology entity is seeking a VP of Engineering to lead the technical execution of its end-to-end satellite missions. This senior role offers a rare opportunity to shape the strategic and technical direction of space systems programs in one of the most ambitious space ecosystems in the world.
Role Overview: As the technical authority on all satellite engineering efforts, you will be responsible for managing the full lifecycle of satellite systems--from architecture and design through to integration, testing, and delivery. You'll lead a multidisciplinary team of engineers working across synthetic aperture radar (SAR), signals intelligence (SIGINT), electro-optical systems, and satellite platforms. This includes bus subsystems and payload integration.
Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the design, development, and delivery of complex satellite systems, ensuring full alignment with mission and operational requirements.
• Lead cross-functional engineering teams across a range of disciplines including RF, thermal, power systems, ADCS, avionics, optics, and mechanical engineering.
• Guide the development and implementation of satellite system architectures, including mission concepts, payload and platform integration, and full lifecycle execution through to launch and commissioning.
• Serve as a technical interface between internal departments (R&D, product, programs) and external stakeholders (OEMs, partners, regulatory bodies, space agencies).
• Ensure compliance with rigorous space, aerospace, and defense standards related to radiation hardening, thermal management, power budgeting, and link budget analysis.
• Champion the adoption of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) practices and digital engineering tools to drive design consistency, technical rigor, and risk mitigation.
• Lead technical assessments, design audits, milestone reviews, and gate approvals across all satellite programs.
• Support strategic decision-making processes including proposals, bid reviews, and investment evaluations with accurate technical analysis and system-level inputs.
• Promote a collaborative, innovative, and quality-driven engineering culture across the organization.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Aerospace, Electrical, Systems Engineering, or a related technical discipline; postgraduate qualifications (Master's or Ph.D.) are strongly preferred.
• At least 15 years of experience in satellite systems engineering, with a successful track record in LEO/MEO/GEO missions and payload/platform integration.
• Experience leading large, multidisciplinary teams on major space or defense satellite programs.
• Deep technical understanding of payloads and subsystems including SAR, SIGINT, electro-optical sensors, TT&C, propulsion, onboard computers, and power systems.
• Hands-on experience in mission analysis, launch interface planning, and in-orbit commissioning.
• Exposure to UAE space initiatives or other regional/national defense or government space programs is advantageous.

Key Competencies

• Broad expertise in space systems design, systems integration, and satellite platform development.
• Proficiency in MBSE tools and frameworks such as Cameo, SysML, STK, DOORS, and MATLAB/Simulink.
• Familiarity with space qualification testing, including thermal vacuum, vibration, and EMI/EMC testing, as well as ICD and space-grade components.
• Strong leadership capability with a track record of fostering high-performance technical teams and delivering under time and budget constraints.
• Ability to engage senior stakeholders and communicate technical strategy clearly at both executive and governmental levels.
• Strategic mindset combined with practical engineering execution and problem-solving skills.

Skills Required