Test Engineer, Ground Systems

Job description

TEST ENGINEER, GROUND SYSTEMS Location: Los Angeles, CA ABOUT OBSERVABLE SPACE At Observable Space, we're redefining how humanity observes and connects with the universe. We're a vertically integrated, high-growth, space technology company building industry-leading precision optics platforms for Earth and in space. Our systems are trusted by NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, Raytheon, and the US DoD, among others, and power the work of leading research institutions. We combine precision opto-mechanical hardware, embedded computing, cloud orchestration, and developer-friendly APIs into world class products. From advanced ground stations, on orbit sensor suites, free space optical lasercom, to distributed compute platforms, we deliver the foundational systems enabling continuous, real-time navigation, observation, and communication in space. Observable Space is backed by top-tier institutional investors including Lux, Upfront Ventures, RTX Ventures, Detroit Venture Partners and Embedded Ventures. ABOUT THE ROLE As a Test Engineer, Ground Systems, you will work across our full product line, focusing on robotic ground-based telescope systems and observatory infrastructure. You will design, build, and operate test systems that validate the performance, reliability, and integration of our hardware and software in real-world environments. This role is deeply hands-on: you will work directly with physical systems, develop automated test frameworks, simulate operational conditions, and debug complex issues across electrical, mechanical, and software domains. You will report to the Systems or Embedded Engineering Lead. WHAT YOU'LL DO - Architect, implement, and document test systems for ground-based observatory and telescope platforms. - Design and maintain automated test frameworks that validate system performance, reliability, and integration. - Build and operate hardware-in-the-loop (HIL/HITL) and system-level test environments. - Develop simulation environments to emulate real-world operating conditions, including sensor inputs, control systems, and communication interfaces. - Debug complex issues across hardware and software boundaries, including intermittent and edge-case failures. - Collaborate closely with embedded, electrical, mechanical, and software teams to ensure comprehensive system validation. - Define and execute test plans, validation procedures, and performance benchmarks. - Support hardware bring-up, integration, and field testing of ground systems. - Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines to ensure continuous validation of system performance. - Participate in product design reviews to ensure testability, reliability, and long-term maintainability. WHAT YOU'LL BRING - 5+ years of experience in test engineering, embedded systems, or systems-level development. - Strong programming skills in Python, C/C++, or similar languages used for automation and system testing. - Experience designing and implementing system-level or hardware-integrated test environments. - Solid understanding of hardware interfaces (I2C, SPI, CAN, Ethernet, UART) and embedded systems. - Experience with lab instrumentation (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, multimeters, etc.) for debugging and validation. - Ability to read and interpret schematics and debug at the electrical–software boundary. - Strong debugging intuition and ability to diagnose complex system-level issues. - Experience working in fast-paced prototyping environments with rapid iteration cycles. - Strong product sense with a focus on reliability, robustness, and field performance. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS - Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL/HITL) testing or simulation-based validation systems. - Familiarity with embedded Linux, RTOS, or firmware development environments. - Experience with networking systems, distributed control systems, or telemetry pipelines. - Background in robotics, observatory systems, or remote/automated operations. - Experience building CI/CD pipelines for hardware-integrated systems. - Experience with environmental testing or field deployment of hardware systems. - Contributions to open-source testing frameworks or embedded systems projects. - Passion for astronomy, physics, and scientific exploration. WHY YOU'LL LOVE IT HERE - 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.