Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO) Lab Manager

North Logan, UT

Full Time

Strategic Military Space

Mid Level

Job ID: 3741

The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking a highly motivated RPO Lab Manager to lead a cutting-edge lab focused on satellite rendezvous and proximity operations. The successful candidate will oversee the technical direction, team coordination, and day-to-day operations of a lab dedicated to testing, simulation, and development of RPO capabilities. This role involves hands-on engineering leadership, strategic program execution, and interfacing with government customers and research collaborators.

Key Responsibilities:

Leads and grows a team of Engineers and Technicians developing and testing RPO capabilities
Guides the designs and implementations of RPO-related simulation environments and hardware-in-the-loop testbeds
Manages lab schedules, tasking, and priorities to meet project milestones and deliverables
Interfaces directly with internal and external stakeholders to align technical progress with mission needs
Fosters collaboration across disciplines including GNC, software, systems, and flight hardware
Defines and tracks technical objectives, deliverables, and risk mitigation plans
Ensures proper lab safety, configuration management, and documentation practices
Leads proposals, roadmaps, and strategic planning for future RPO capabilities

Required Qualifications:

BS or MS in aerospace engineering, systems engineering, or a related technical field
10+ years of experience in aerospace systems development, preferably involving RPO or space mission operations
Demonstrated technical leadership of multi-disciplinary engineering teams
Experience with spacecraft GNC, simulation, or autonomous operations
Strong project management, organizational, and communication skills
Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance (Top Secret preferred)

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with RPO sensors, algorithms, or flight systems
Familiarity with software-in-the-loop (SIL) and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing
Previous lab management experience or direct involvement in lab stand-up or expansion
PMP certification or equivalent leadership training

*Salary Range:

$129,000-$193,500
- Salary commensurate based on education and experience

Why Join SDL?

*SDL offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Visit our Benefits Page to learn more about what we offer.

At SDL, we support national security and scientific missions that matter. Our technologies power some of the most important satellite systems and spacecraft operations in space today. If you're passionate about pushing the boundaries of space technology, join us and help define the future of RPO.

SDL supports a variety of missions, including NASA’s vision to reveal the unknown for the benefit of humankind and the Department of Defense’s aim to protect our nation on the ground, in the air, and in space. Our sensors, satellites, software systems, and science and engineering play an essential role in some important missions you’ve heard of, and others that you haven’t. Join our team in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.

At SDL, we uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.

For questions, assistance, or accommodation with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact employment@sdl.usu.edu.

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Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO) Lab Manager

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