Head of Systems Engineering & AIT (m/f/d) - #2778391

About Starflight Dynamics

Starflight Dynamics (SFDY) is a Munich-based SpaceTech company building the foundational technologies for Europe's next generation of orbital infrastructure. Founded in 2023, we develop dual-use systems for space and defence: a green, water-based orbital propulsion stack and modular platforms for in-orbit operations.Working with partners such as the University of the German Armed Forces in Munich and the BAAINBw, we're a small, ambitious team moving fast from prototype to orbit. Join us and help shape how Europe operates, and defends its interests, in space.

Mission & responsibilities

You will lead our systems engineering and shape the next generations of SFDY space platforms, exploring the concepts, orbits and architectures that come after OVERWATCH.

Future systems & concepts

• Lead concept and feasibility studies for future platforms and missions, from first idea to a sized design
• Own preliminary sizing and system budgets for new concepts, and the models and tools behind them
• Explore new operating regimes, including very low Earth orbit (VLEO), and the technologies they demand
• Assess emerging technologies and turn them into a roadmap for future SFDY systems

Architecture & standards

• Run architecture trade-offs across platform, propulsion, payload and mission, including alternative technologies and approaches
• Set the systems-engineering standards and methods for SFDY, and build and lead the Systems Engineering & AIT team
• Feed lessons from OVERWATCH (our demonstration mission) and current programmes into the next designs

Proposals & collaboration

• Turn studies into proposals and technical content for ESA, BAAINBw, DLR and other customers
• Work with concept development in Vilnius to tie future systems to operational needs
• Guide the systems engineering of OVERWATCH and review its key technical decisions

What we are looking for

Must have

• 10+ years in spacecraft systems engineering, mission analysis or concept design
• Experience leading or building an engineering team, or the standing to do so
• Strong in sizing, budgets and trade-offs, with your own modelling tools (e.g. Python, MATLAB)
• Curiosity for unconventional solutions, matched by engineering rigour
• Fluent English

Nice to have

• German
• Experience with VLEO, drag compensation or air-breathing propulsion
• Experience with concurrent-engineering studies (e.g. ESA CDF style)
• Experience writing technical proposals

What we offer

• A challenging position in the space industry with high responsibilities
• A permanent contract and 30 days of vacation
• Flexible hours
• Employee benefits, such as fitness programmes, mobility allowance, and shopping vouchers
• Access to the company's virtual share options programme

Diversity & Encouragement to apply

Research shows that people from underrepresented groups are statistically less likely to apply for a role unless they meet every single requirement listed. If that's you — but you're genuinely excited about building the foundations of Europe's orbital infrastructure — we'd strongly encourage you to apply anyway. We care more about drive and capability than a perfect match on paper.

We believe diversity of background and perspective drives better engineering and better decisions, and we welcome applications regardless of gender, age, nationality, disability, religion, or sexual orientation. Severely disabled applicants will be given preference where equally qualified.

Data Privacy

Information on how we process your application data can be found in our privacy notice on our website