Space Systems Engineer (Production)

HEO is the world’s first commercial non-Earth imaging (NEI) and insights services company. NEI involves capturing resolved imagery of space objects using cameras mounted on other satellites, and deriving information and intelligence from the captured imagery. Our technology helps governments and commercial companies to visually monitor their spacecraft and other space objects they care about. Our vision is to image anything in the solar system on-demand. Read more about NEI here.

We are building out a high performing interdisciplinary team capable of pushing the boundaries of space technology. We are growing fast and looking for talented, passionate people that value collaboration, growth and learning to join our team.

HEO is a post Series-A company backed by high profile venture funds including Airtree, Y Combinator and In-Q-Tel. We are headquartered in Sydney with offices in London, Tokyo, UK and Washington DC.

About the role:

HEO designs and builds high-performance optical payloads for space. As a Space Systems Engineer (Production), you’ll be a hands-on generalist building and integrating our space cameras. You’ll work directly with the hardware team to improve manufacturability, iterate on production builds, and handle hardware inspection and quality control.

Your key responsibilities:

• Help assemble, integrate, and test HEO’s next-generation space cameras.
• Perform hands-on mechanical, electronic, and optical assembly in a lab environment.
• Handle wire harnessing, cable assembly, PCB handling, and soldering for flight hardware.
• Build assembly jigs, write clear build procedures, and set up repeatable workflows.
• Implement design-for-manufacture (DFM) best practices and integrate prototyping feedback into design revisions.
• Troubleshoot and fix manufacturing issues during prototype and early production builds.
• Maintain configuration control and documentation for production hardware.
• Conduct incoming and in-process part inspection (including PCAs and electronic components), fit checks, and manage supplier-provided hardware quality.
• Conduct functional and acceptance testing on production hardware.
• Assist in safe packaging, transport, and export of flight and engineering hardware.

We are looking for someone with:

• 3-5+ years of hands-on experience in hardware production, assembly, or testing (ideally in space, aerospace, or defence)
• Experience working with external suppliers and manufacturing partners.
• Practical electronics background, including hands-on experience soldering, wiring harnesses, and handling PCAs.
• Understanding of mechanical tolerancing, inspection tools, materials, and DFM principles.
• Strong organisational and documentation skills.
• Proficiency in:

• Fusion 360 or similar CAD tools
• Python (or similar) for automated test setups
  
  

Nice to have

• Familiarity with optical payload integration and alignment techniques
• Knowledge of hardware export and logistics for spaceflight or defense systems is considered a plus
• Hands on electronics production experience or knowledge

HEO’s Company Values:

We value good space citizenship. We are passionate about responsible space custodianship, sustainability and trust. We believe that space should be easy and transparent. Our values help us to tackle some of the most complex issues in space for the benefit of all of humanity.

As a team, we are committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for employees from all backgrounds.

Perks, benefits & culture:

HEO is one of Australia’s fastest-growing space technology companies. At HEO, we’re committed to creating the best working environment where everyone thrives, values collaboration, encourages innovation and shares the common goal of making space transparent. Here’s some of the ways we achieve that goal:

• Employee Share Option Plan (ESOP). Own a piece of HEO!
• Convenient location in Sydney’s Tech Central with end of trip facilities (bicycle parking and showers)
• Flexible leave options so you can recharge and relax when best suits you - no forced leave during office shutdowns
• Paid parental leave for everyone
• A supportive environment that fosters cross-team collaboration. We learn by trial and celebrate our wins together
• Fireside chats every other Friday where we showcase what someone’s working on or something new in our industry, with some snacks and maybe a game of ping-pong or two
• Quarterly team events to share achievements we’re proud of (no matter how big or small) plus an annual event that brings together our team and customers

Our commitment to Diversity and Inclusion:

We make hiring decisions based on your experience, skills and passion, as well as how you can enhance HEO and our culture. Research shows that women and underrepresented groups are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single competency or experience. If you are excited about this role, but your past experience doesn't align perfectly, we encourage you to apply anyway. You could be just the right person for this role and HEO. If you have any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at time of application and throughout the interview process.

The successful candidate must be an Australian citizen and will be required to undergo a background check.

We kindly request no unsolicited resumes or approaches from recruitment agencies. HEO is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes. The successful candidate will be required to submit to a background check. Please refer to our privacy policy regarding how your data will be handled: https://www.heospace.com/policy-html