Introduction

At Orbital Paradigm, we design, develop, manufacture, and operate reusable orbital logistics systems. Our spacecraft perform multiple orbital mission profiles and return safely to Earth through hypersonic atmospheric reentry and landing with pinpoint accuracy for rapid refurbishment and reuse.

Role Description

Orbital Paradigm is looking for a Spacecraft Lead Engineer to lead the development of Kestrel, the company’s primary spacecraft programme, and drive the spacecraft engineering function across the company.

Kestrel is a space return capsule capable of transporting up to 120 kg of payload to space and back, staying in orbit up to 3 months, and fly through hypersonic reentry using an advanced onboard guidance capable of limiting accelerations below 3g.

The role covers spacecraft architecture, system-level design, technical coordination, integration logic, verification strategy, and cross-functional engineering execution from development through mission readiness. It also includes consolidating and maturing the company’s spacecraft engineering methodology,



ensuring consistent technical processes, standards, and decision-making across disciplines.

This is a senior technical lead role. The Spacecraft Lead Engineer will provide technical direction, ensure engineering coherence across disciplines, and drive spacecraft development and engineering maturity to clear technical and programme outcomes.

Key Responsibilities
- Lead the technical development of the Kestrel spacecraft.
- Define and maintain spacecraft architecture, system design, and technical interfaces.
- Drive system-level engineering decisions across spacecraft subsystems and mission needs.
- Consolidate and mature spacecraft engineering methodology across the company.
- Establish spacecraft-level requirements, verification logic, and technical baselines.
- Coordinate cross-functional engineering execution across design, analysis, integration, verification, and operations.
- Review and ap

📌 Systems - Spacecraft Lead Engineer - Kestrel (Madrid)
🏢 Orbital Paradigm
📍 Madrid