Senior Test Engineer, HITL at Observable Space

From telescopes to software architecture, Observable Space provides the foundational elements every organization needs to operate in space. Observable Space is unlocking continuous, real-time observations of space with the industry’s first line of vertically integrated hardware and software products. 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 As a Senior Test Engineer, HITL, you will work across our full product line, from robotic ground-based telescope systems to future on-orbit platforms. You will design, build, and operate hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) test systems that validate the performance, reliability, and integration of our hardware and software systems. This role is deeply hands-on: you will interface directly with real hardware, develop automated test frameworks, simulate real-world and space environments, and debug complex issues across electrical, mechanical, and software boundaries. You will report to the Systems or Embedded Engineering Lead. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Architect, implement, and maintain hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) test systems for validating spacecraft and telescope subsystems. - Design test infrastructure that integrates real hardware with simulated environments (sensors, actuators, communication links, and control systems). - Develop automated test frameworks and tooling to enable scalable, repeatable validation across the product lifecycle. - Build and maintain simulation environments for system-level testing, including fault injection and edge case validation. - Collaborate closely with embedded, electrical, mechanical, and software teams to ensure comprehensive system verification. - Debug complex system-level issues across hardware and software boundaries, including real-time and edge-case failures. - Define and execute test plans, validation procedures, and performance benchmarks for integrated systems. - Support hardware bring-up, integration, and system-level validation activities. - Contribute to CI/CD pipelines by integrating automated test suites and ensuring test coverage across releases. - Participate in design reviews (PDR, CDR, etc.) to ensure testability, reliability, and system robustness. BASIC QUALIFICATIONS - 5+ years of experience in test engineering, embedded systems, or systems-level development. - Strong programming skills in C/C++, Python, or similar languages used for test automation and system integration. - Experience designing and implementing hardware-in-the-loop (HIL/HITL) or system-level test environments. - Solid understanding of embedded systems, hardware interfaces (I2C, SPI, UART, CAN, Ethernet), and real-time systems. - Experience using lab instrumentation (oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, multimeters, etc.) for debugging and validation. - Ability to read schematics and debug issues at the electrical–software boundary. - Strong debugging mindset and ability to diagnose complex, cross-disciplinary issues. - Experience working in fast-paced, iterative development environments. - Strong communication and collaboration skills across engineering disciplines. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS - Experience with spacecraft, aerospace systems, robotics, or other high-reliability environments. - Familiarity with embedded Linux, RTOS, or firmware development workflows. - Experience building simulation environments or digital twins for system validation. - Knowledge of communication protocols and telemetry systems used in distributed or remote systems. - Experience with CI/CD pipelines and automated test infrastructure for hardware-integrated systems. - Background in vision systems, sensors, or control systems. - Experience with environmental testing (thermal, vibration, vacuum) and validation workflows. - Contributions to open-source testing frameworks or embedded systems projects. - Passion for astronomy, physics, and scientific exploration. 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.