Director of Engineering

Back to jobsDirector of EngineeringReston, VA - HybridApplyScout is building a new way to see and operate in space: with a new paradigm of data empowering every satellite to make space safer. We are a rapidly growing team; we are deploying real solutions to orbit over the next 2 years; and our work will transform the face of spaceflight. We are looking for people who bring excitement and energy to our organization, are curious and eager to learn, and want to help drive our programs forward.  Scout Space is seeking a mission-driven Director of Engineering to lead the execution, growth, and technical direction of our engineering organization. This leader will be responsible for scaling a multidisciplinary team across hardware, software, and autonomy while delivering high-performance space-based sensing systems to government and commercial customers. The role sits at the intersection of technical excellence, operational execution, and team leadership, ensuring that Scout’s payloads, flight software, and data products are delivered on time, meet mission requirements, and push the boundaries of on-orbit capability.  Responsibilities  Lead and scale a multidisciplinary engineering organization spanning optical, mechanical, electrical, firmware, flight software, autonomy, and mission systems engineering Drive execution of complex space payload programs and architecture decisions from concept through design, integration, test, launch, and on-orbit operations  Coordinate closely with the executive team on product, program management, and business development to align the engineering team and execution with customer needs, mission objectives, and company roadmap Establish and enforce engineering processes, standards, and best practices to ensure high-quality, flight-ready systems Build and mentor high-performing engineering teams, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement  Support proposal efforts, including technical strategy, architecture definition, and programmatic inputs   Qualifications:  Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field 10+ years of experience in aerospace, defense, or related high-reliability engineering environments   5+ years of experience leading engineering teams and delivering complex hardware/software systems  Demonstrated experience delivering space systems (payloads, spacecraft, or related subsystems) from concept to operations Strong understanding of spacecraft systems engineering, including integration across hardware, software, and operations   Experience with space-based sensing systems, optical payloads, or autonomy/AI-driven systems is highly preferred Proven ability to manage technical risk, schedules, and cross-functional dependencies in fast-paced environments   Experience working with U.S. Government customers and programs Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI clearance  Preferred Qualifications:  Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field Experience scaling engineering teams in a startup or high-growth environment   Background in space domain awareness (SDA), remote sensing, or on-orbit autonomy   Familiarity with flight software architecture (e.g., modular frameworks, onboard autonomy systems)  Experience with production and manufacturing of space hardware, including supply chain and vendor management   Strong track record of leading teams through design reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR) and flight qualification  Experience supporting or leading capture/proposal efforts for government programs  Benefits Open Time Off Paid Parental Leave Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance 401k Matching Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Accounts, Dependent Care FSA Wellness Stipend Work From Home Stipend Life Insurance Long-term Disability plans Commuter Benefit Education...