Director, Electrical Engineering

From telescopes to software architecture, Observable Space provides the foundational elements every organization needs to operate in space. Observable Space is a global leader in advanced observation platforms. We design, build, and manufacture world class optical systems, for ground, space, and optical communication. The company is a leader in advanced telescope design and manufacturing in the US. Every product is part of a robust developer platform for space data applications. Observable Space’s full line of products serves all sectors of the space industry including commercial, science, education, and government customers, as well as astronomy enthusiasts discovering the cosmos. Observable Space is backed by top institutional investors–Upfront Ventures, Oceans Ventures, Venrex, Marlinspike Partners, and Embedded Ventures. Role Summary We are seeking an experienced Director of Electrical Engineering to lead and scale our electrical engineering department. This role will play a critical leadership position in advancing our product line of observatory systems and laser communication systems, driving both architectural vision and execution across complex, high-performance hardware. The ideal candidate brings deep technical expertise in both circuit and broad electrical system design, paired with a proven ability to lead teams, define engineering standards, and guide products from concept through production. This individual will operate at both the system and organizational level, partnering cross-functionally while building a high-performing, scalable engineering organization. Responsibilities Lead the end-to-end development of electrical systems from early concept and prototyping through production and field deployment. Define and own the electrical architecture across observatory platforms, including PCBs, harnessing, and subsystem integration. Establish best practices in circuit design, signal integrity, EMI/EMC compliance, and power distribution at a system level. Provide technical oversight on schematic design, simulation, layout, and validation to ensure performance, reliability, and manufacturability. Drive rigorous testing methodologies and validation plans to ensure system performance and safety requirements are met. Define and document electrical interfaces, system architectures, and product requirements to enable efficient cross-team execution. Collaborate with manufacturing partners to ensure smooth transitions from prototype to scaled production. Champion design for manufacturing (DFM), design for test (DFT), and design for reliability (DFR) across all programs. Partner closely with mechanical, software, optical, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless system integration. Identify and mitigate risks related to high-speed interfaces, vibration environments, thermal performance, and long-term field reliability. Support supplier selection, manufacturing processes, and quality control standards. Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing team of electrical engineers across varying levels of experience. Basic Qualifications Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field. 8+ years of experience in a relevant electrical engineering role. Strong understanding of DC power circuits, motor drivers, common interfaces/protocols (I2C, SPI, CAN, Ethernet, MIPI, PCIe), ADCs, microcontrollers, opamps, and transistor circuits. Excellent circuit debugging skills, knowledge of power supplies, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, spectrum analyzers, multimeters. Comfortable with PCB rework including soldering, staking, cutting traces, preparing wires. Experience with circuit simulation and design tools. Understanding of circuit board construction, transmission line structures, signal integrity, EMI/EMC, via types, and component types. Understanding of wire harnessing fundamentals such as electrical checkout, hi-pot testing, impedance characterization, and shielding. An acute product sense and place an emphasis on design for manufacturing and field reliability. An ability to thrive in a fast paced dynamic environment where rapid prototyping is the norm. An iterative mindset- perfect is the enemy of good. Preferred Qualifications Experience with Altium (or similar PCB software) and LTSpice (or similar software). Familiarity with high rate interconnect - backplane technologies like VPX with capabilities > 100GB/s Experience with electromagnetics simulation software (ADS, HFSS). Experience with high-reliability validation testing campaigns. Experience with high speed SerDes interface design and testing. Experience mitigating mechanical failure points for PCBs in vibration environments. A love of astronomy, physics, and science. What We Offer Competitive Compensation – A salary package aligned with industry standards and your experience. Equity Opportunities – Take part in our success with stock options. Flexible Work Environment – Enjoy working from our office or in a hybrid work setup with the flexibility to work remotely part of the week. We require a minimum of 3 days per week in our office to support collaboration and team culture. (LA Office only) Unlimited PTO – Take the time you need with our flexible, trust-based vacation policy, including paid holidays. We encourage everyone to rest, recharge, and take care of themselves. Health & Wellness – Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with 100% of the premium paid by the employer for employees. Cutting-Edge Tools – Get access to the latest hardware and software you need to do your best work. Mission-Driven Culture – Be part of a team working on meaningful challenges with real-world impact. Inclusive Team – We foster a supportive and diverse workplace where all voices are valued. Observable Space is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law. Compensation: $210K- $235K salary + competitive equity