> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/1383219-payload-system-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/1383219-payload-system-engineer). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md). --- # Payload System Engineer - **Company:** constellr GmbH - **Location:** München, Germany - **Experience:** Expert - **Contract:** Permanent contract - **Skills:** Systems Engineering, Image Quality, Python (Programming Language), Zemax, Programming Languages - **Published:** July 22, 2026 - **Apply:** https://de.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=15775097d64bd05d ## About the Role * Degree in engineering, physics, or a related scientific discipline. * Proven experience (5+ years) in optical payload design for space applications, ideally with infrared instruments. * Proven ability to commit to project plans and deliver expected results on time, or report proactively if deviations are foreseen. * Ability to rapidly expand application-specific knowledge sets and quickly familiarize with new areas of responsibility. * Strong interpersonal skills to build constructive, collaborative relationships with suppliers and other internal teams. * Familiarity with Python (or another programming language alongside a willingness to learn Python). * Strong written and spoken English skills. Nice to Have: * Optical design experience using Zemax (or experience with alternative software alongside a willingness to learn Zemax). * Optical Assembly, Integration, and Testing (AIT) experience. * Opto-mechanical design experience. ## Description As a Payload System Engineer, you'll be part of the Mission and Space Systems team. You'll collaborate daily with the other engineers of the team as well as the operations teams and external partners. Your role will be instrumental in both supporting the performance of our orbiting satellites by developing deep technical knowledge of our current payload, and shaping the future of our constellation by contributing to the design and development of our next-generation payload., * Derivation of technical payload requirements from top-level specifications. * Perform design trade-offs targeting the most efficient solutions with respect to technological and programmatic constraints. * Co-design and co-development of the payload together with partners. * Support, implementation, and management of supplier reviews. * Write and maintain requirement specifications, coordinating with procurement and AIT teams to ensure supplier performance. * Define and maintain payload budgets (radiometry, image quality, data rate, etc.). * Perform payload functional and performance analysis and testing. * Support operational concept definition, mission analysis, and system-level performance assessments with payload-related inputs. * Support the completion of all necessary payload documentation for the qualification and certification of flight systems, as well as associated verification requirements and test result evaluations. * Collaborate with the other teams to define necessary requirements and interfaces. * Participate in the payload and satellite-level Assembly, Integration, and Testing (AIT) activities, and support their planning and definition. * Participate in the development of our internal test and system engineering software., * High-Impact National Security Mission: Be part of an ambitious mission to launch the world's first commercial thermal infrared constellation, delivering sovereign-grade "behavioural" intelligence from space to close critical blind spots for defence, intelligence, and maritime surveillance agencies. * Fast-Paced "New Space" Innovation: Work at the leading edge of a rapidly evolving defence sector. By leveraging modern, agile New Space methodologies, you will help design, build, and deploy dual-use thermal payloads into operational orbit at a speed and scale that traditional aerospace models simply cannot match. * Broad Interdisciplinary Exposure: Accelerate your professional growth by collaborating daily with a diverse, international cohort of astrophysicists, software developers, and defence-system engineers. * Inclusive & Scientific Culture: Join a high-trust team deeply committed to diversity, inclusion, and scientific excellence, where academic curiosity is paired with high autonomy and a flat hierarchy. * Financial Upside & Well-being: Benefit from a Virtual Share Option Plan (VSOP) for permanent employees, giving you a true stake in the company's growth, alongside highly flexible hybrid working models. ## Related Videos - [Model Based Systems Engineering in an Agile Product Development Process](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/68-model-based-systems-engineering-in-an-agile-product-development-process) - [Garbage In, Garbage Out: Engineering Reliable AI Document Extraction Pipelines](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/100301-garbage-in-garbage-out-engineering-reliable-ai-document-extraction-pipelines) - [Strange New Worlds: shaping the future of the digital age](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/videos/677-strange-new-worlds-shaping-the-future-of-the-digital-age) - [Robots are coming into the wild! 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