Lead AIT Engineer

The Directed Energy Research Center is seeking a highly motivated Lead AIT Engineer to join the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) and contribute to the development and implementation of a spaceborne Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) payload. The role involves leading a multidisciplinary team (encompassing electronic/RF, mechanical/thermal, and software disciplines) through the full Assembly, Integration, and Test (AIT) lifecycle. This includes ensuring that the payload meets all technical, functional, and environmental requirements prior to launch and during early operations of the mission. The job also requires managing and mentoring a team of junior engineers.

Job Responsibilities:

• Lead the planning, execution, and documentation of AIT/AIV activities for a spaceborne radar payload.
• Develop and maintain integration and verification plans, procedures, and schedules in alignment with mission requirements and system-level constraints.
• Coordinate the development and deployment of ground support equipment (GSE), including mechanical, electrical, and RF interfaces.
• Supervise payload integration, functional testing, performance testing, environmental qualification (vibration, thermal vacuum, EMC), and final acceptance.
• Ensure compliance with applicable standards and internal quality assurance processes.
• Manage test campaigns, including anomaly investigations, data analysis, and reporting.
• Interface with system engineering, mechanical, electrical, RF, and software teams to ensure smooth integration and verification of the payload.
• Support launch preparation activities and provide technical leadership during early orbit operations.
• Provide training and mentorship to a team of young engineers in the relevant technical domain.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in engineering, physics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in AIT/AIV for space programs.
• Strong understanding of space system integration, environmental testing, and verification methodologies.
• Familiarity with cleanroom operations, GSE development, and test automation tools.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Familiarity with space standards, such as the ECSS.
• Excellent leadership and organizational skills.
• Proficient in English language, both written and spoken.

At the Advanced Technology Research Council in Abu Dhabi, we embrace diversity, recognizing that a multitude of backgrounds, skills, and experiences drive innovation and success. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives thrive, ensuring equal opportunities, zero tolerance for discrimination, and a supportive workplace that values respect, collaboration, and continuous improvement.