Sr. Controls Engineer, Ground Systems

Astra’s mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Today, Astra offers one of the lowest cost-per-launch dedicated orbital launch services, and one of the industry’s leading flight-proven electric propulsion systems for satellites, the Astra Spacecraft Engine.

The Opportunity

As a Senior Controls Engineer, Ground Systems, you will design and implement the control systems that power our automated ground system and launch equipment. You’ll collaborate closely with hardware engineers, test operators, software developers, and launch teams to deliver robust, maintainable, and safety-compliant solutions that work in the real world – on real hardware. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a hands-on environment, loves debugging systems, and enjoys building automation from the ground up. This is full on-site position.

Our systems are modular and rapidly deployable, enabling global transport and fast assembly. By delivering flexible, reliable infrastructure, we help increase launch readiness and support Astra’s mission to enable more frequent and affordable space missions.

Join Astra’s Ground Systems team to design and build the systems that support rocket testing and launch operations. You’ll focus on the control systems that are the entire autonomous ground system - from propellant loading and environmental control to fire suppression and pad safety. This role combines hands-on hardware design with process definition to deliver reliable, mobile ground support equipment.

How You'll Fulfill Your Mission

• Control System Design: Architect, implement, and maintain control systems for factory and test infrastructure, including motor controllers, sensors, actuators, and safety interlocks

• Software Development: Write and maintain Python-based control software, including interfaces for data acquisition, real-time control loops, and hardware communication (e.g., Modbus, CAN, TCP/IP)

• Testing & Troubleshooting: Support initial bring-up, debug, and refinement of new control systems on the floor; solve real-time bugs under pressure

• Collaboration: Partner with mechanical, electrical, and test engineers to understand system requirements and develop cross-disciplinary solutions

• Documentation & Support: Create clear system documentation, operator manuals, and test procedures to support ongoing use and future scalability
• Safety & Reliability: Ensure all control systems comply with industrial safety standards and can withstand real-world use in a fast-paced factory/test environment

Why We Value You

• 5+ years of experience developing and deploying real-world control systems (in test or production environments)

• Strong proficiency in Python for automation and control applications

• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, CAN, EtherCAT, RS-485)

• Experience with PLCs, industrial PCs, or embedded control systems

• Comfort working around high-voltage, high-pressure, or high-speed hardware systems

• Hands-on experience debugging physical systems and integrating software with hardware

• Clear communication and documentation skills, especially around technical specs and safety constraints

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, or Controls Engineering (or equivalent experience)

Desired Multipliers

• Aerospace, automotive, or advanced manufacturing background

• Experience with NI hardware/software, SCADA systems, or real-time data logging architectures

• Exposure to safety system design and standards (e.g., OSHA, NFPA 79, ISO 13849)
• Familiarity with version control systems (e.g., Git) and Linux-based workflow

The pay range for this role is: $140,000 - $180,000 per year

Salary and Benefits

We're competitive in compensation and offer equity as part of the package. We have great benefits that include health, vision, dental, and 401K in comparison to other startups. We provide lunch and there's plenty of snacks and drinks to get you through the day.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

ITAR Requirements: This position requires compliance with U.S. Government space technology trade restrictions, specifically the International Trafficking in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and additional regulations governing satellite, launch vehicle, missile, and other related technologies. All jobs restricted by these regulations will be contingent upon the applicant’s status as a documented U.S. Person or their ability to receive a trade license from the cognizant government agency; in addition to any required company background checks and in compliance with applicable U.S. and California laws. Similarly, positions requiring the ability to work on government contracts or a security clearance are also contingent upon the applicants ability to receive the appropriate clearance and be allowed to work on U.S. government contracts.

© Astra Space Operations, LLC. All rights reserved, Astra is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We encourage people of different backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and perspectives to apply.

San Francisco Applicants: Astra will consider applicants with arrest and conviction records (criminal histories) in a manner consistent with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.