Chief Architect Engineer

Chief Architect – Lunar Data Network

Houston Texas, Onsite 

About Intuitive Machines

Intuitive Machines is an innovative and cutting-edge space company making cislunar space accessible to both public and private customers. Our mission is to further science and exploration, communications, and economic progress from the Earth to the Moon and beyond. With the first commercial lunar landing in history, multiple NASA lunar missions in development, and additional private missions on our manifest, we pride ourselves in supporting our customers and the nation in paving the way to return humans to the surface of the Moon. Our world-class team includes experts in all aspects of spacecraft subsystems design, development, and test, on-orbit operations, and safety.   

About The Position 

The Chief Architect will serve as the technical visionary behind the Lunar Data Network, focusing on the design, development, and integration of cutting-edge communication systems and software architecture. Reporting to the Chief Engineer for the Lunar Data Network, this role emphasizes scalable, reliable, and secure software and systems architecture, while also ensuring the seamless integration of hardware and operational infrastructure.

The ideal candidate will bring 15+ years of experience in space or satellite industries, with an emphasis on the development of software-driven architectures for satellite constellations and ground station networks. Experience working with NASA, SATCOM organizations, or similar regulatory bodies is highly preferred.

Responsibilities: 

• Collaborate with the Chief Engineer & Software Manager to align software and systems architecture strategies with program objectives and customer requirements.
• Provide leadership and technical guidance to multidisciplinary teams spanning software engineering, systems integration, and mission operations.
• Collaborate on the end-to-end architecture for the Lunar Data Network, emphasizing scalable software solutions for satellite systems, ground stations, and communication protocols.
• Develop and define software system requirements, APIs, and interfaces to meet mission objectives and ensure seamless integration across platforms.
• Oversee the software architecture for Tracking, Telemetry, and Command (TT&C) systems, ensuring robust and reliable data flow between space and ground assets.
• Implement and champion modern software development practices, including DevOps, cloud infrastructure, and cybersecurity measures tailored to space operations.
• Collaborate with NASA, partners, and stakeholders to ensure software compatibility, interoperability, and compliance with technical and regulatory standards.

Require Qualifications:  

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field.
• 15+ years of experience leading software and systems architecture for technical projects in the space or satellite industry.
• Proven expertise in architecting and deploying large-scale software systems for satellite constellations, ground station networks, or similar domains.
• Strong technical background in TT&C systems, network architecture, and secure communication protocols.
• Experience working with NASA, DoD, or SATCOM organizations, with familiarity in their technical and regulatory landscapes.
• Expertise in modern software engineering practices, API design, and cybersecurity for critical infrastructure.
• Exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills.

EEO Statement 

Intuitive Machines is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.