Cowboy Space is a startup building orbital data-center satellites and an in-house rocket program to launch them.
SENIOR AVIONICS ENGINEER (SAN CARLOS, CA) Cowboy Space Corp. is building the infrastructure to power and connect the orbital economy. Our satellites operate in Low Earth Orbit to collect sunlight and enable a new class of capabilities—from powering on-orbit compute, to transmitting energy via infrared lasers (space-to-earth and space-to-space), powering on-orbit compute to delivering secure, high-bandwidth optical data. By rethinking how energy and data are generated and distributed in space, we’re unlocking entirely new ways to operate both in orbit and on Earth. Founded in 2024 by Baiju Bhatt (co-founder of Robinhood), Cowboy Space Corp. is backed by leading investors and built by a team from top aerospace and defense organizations. We’re moving quickly to solve complex technical challenges and build a new category of space infrastructure. About the Role: The Senior Avionics Engineer role is responsible for the design, development, and integration of electrical systems supporting advanced data center satellites. You will collaborate with software, mechanical, and compute engineers to develop solutions that meet rigorous performance standards for space applications. Responsibilities: - Design and test electrical hardware for satellite subsystems, focusing on compute power management, FPGA based boards, and signal processing. - Develop and maintain schematics, PCB designs, and harness diagrams for laser systems and satellite subsystems. - Perform testing and debugging of electrical hardware, ensuring robust operation under various environmental conditions. - Collaborate with cross-functional teams (software, mechanical, and thermal engineers) to ensure seamless integration and system-level functionality. - Maintain detailed technical documentation, including system requirements, design specifications, and test plans. - Support environmental testing and validation, including thermal-vacuum, vibration, and electromagnetic interference tests to ensure space-qualification of electrical subsystems. - Participate in customer and internal design reviews, providing technical insights and recommendations for system improvements. - Stay up-to-date with emerging technologies and industry trends, and continuously improve the design and development process in the electrical engineering lab. Basic Qualifications: - Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline. - 5+ years of experience in electrical design, preferably in aerospace, satellite, or computing systems. - Circuit simulation and analysis experience using tools such as LTspice and spreadsheets. - Hands-on experience with lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, signal generators, and soldering stations. - Strong troubleshooting skills and experience debugging electrical systems in lab environments. - Proficiency with CAD tools for electrical design (e.g., Altium, OrCAD). - Familiarity with control systems, sensors, and their integration into optical platforms. Preferred Qualifications: - Masters degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline. - Experience with accelerated computing systems - Familiarity with space qualification standards and environmental testing for aerospace applications (thermal-vacuum, vibration, radiation). - Experience working with cross-functional engineering teams, particularly with thermal and mechanical disciplines. - Understanding of satellite electrical systems and power distribution for space applications. Compensation and Benefits The salary range for this position is $150,000 – $200,000 annually. The actual base salary offered will depend on factors such as job-related skills, experience, qualifications, and internal equity. - Equity in Cowboy Space Corp. - Employees and their eligible dependents may enroll in medical, dental, and vision insurance - 401(k) retirement savings plan - Paid time off - 10 paid holidays per calendar year - Paid parental leave - Relocation assistance if applicable - Daily lunch in the office and a fully stocked kitchen with beverages and snacks ITAR Requirements - Export Control Requirement: To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about ITAR here https://deccs.pmddtc.state.gov/deccs. Disclaimer This job description is a summary of the primary duties and responsibilities of the job and position. It is not intended to be a comprehensive or all-inclusive listing of duties and responsibilities. Contents are subject to change at Cowboy Space Corp.’s discretion. Cowboy Space Corp. is an equal employment opportunity employer. We consider individuals for employment or promotion according to their skills, abilities and experience. Cowboy Space Corp. is committed to complying with all applicable laws prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religious creed, age, national origin, ancestry, physical, mental or developmental disability, sex (which includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and medical conditions relating to pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding), veteran status, military status, marital or registered domestic partnership status, medical condition (including cancer or genetic characteristics), genetic information, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, as well as any other category protected by federal, state or local laws.