Manager - Payload Systems

Overview

Overview

Space42 (ADX: SPACE42) is a UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company that integrates satellite communications, geospatial analytics and artificial intelligence capabilities to enlighten the Earth from space. Established in 2024 following the successful merger between Bayanat and Yahsat, Space42’s global reach allows it to address the rapidly evolving needs of its customers in governments, enterprises, and communities.

Our vision is to pioneer beyond today for humanity to experience a better tomorrow. Space42 challenges traditional approaches with advanced AI and cutting-edge satellite technology, making space more accessible and redefining how data from space can be used on Earth. We aim to achieve this by connecting people to rewire potential, informing decisions to reimagine impact and enabling action to redefine tomorrow.

For more information visit: www.space42.ai, follow us on X and Instagram @Space42ai

ROLE PURPOSE

The Manager – Payload Systems will lead a multidisciplinary team responsible for the end-to-end management of all payload-related initiatives related to the Space42 satellite fleet—including procurement, design, analysis, integration, testing, and other operational functions. Reporting to the Head of Space Segment Engineering, you will work closely with R&D, Operations, Strategy, and Business Intelligence teams, optimizing payload systems to boost platform efficiency and product reliability across the Space42 ecosystem. You will also support, as necessary, the small satellite efforts in the SPace42 Space Lab and KUSTIC.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities

• Lead the Payload Systems team in managing design, procurement, integration, and testing for current and future satellite payloads, ensuring peak system performance and reliability.
• Oversee definition and validation of technical requirements for communication payloads and TT&C subsystems, aligning with critical mission and customer needs.
• Supervise payload system support for operational spacecraft and ensure accurate identification and resolution of technical anomalies.
• Guide the evaluation of payload component suppliers, managing RFI/RFP/BAFO processes and technical negotiations to maximize value and innovation.
• Maintain an expert-level awareness of industry technology trends, competitive benchmarks, and component supplier roadmaps.
• Direct the documentation of lessons learnt, providing structured feedback to inform future program procurement and design cycles.
• Produce consolidated reports and briefings for executive leadership and key stakeholders on ongoing activities, performance metrics, and issues.
• Support new mission feasibility studies, collaborating with AI/ML and satellite engineering teams to maximize payload utility.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, quality, and regulatory requirements within payload systems projects.
• Develop the training plan for team members, prioritizing upskilling in AI, advanced analytics, and system integration.
  
  

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field.
• Advanced Degree or Certifications (e.g. PhD, PMP, Six Sigma, Space Systems Engineering).
• 8-10+ years’ progressive experience in satellite payload systems engineering, integration, or mission operations within the space or telecom sector.
• Proven experience with AI and/or advanced analytics applications in payload or satellite systems.
• Deep knowledge of RF, communications, and TT&C systems design and integration.
• Experience with AI/ML, cloud, or edge computing applied in space or defense contexts is a plus.
  
  

• Demonstrated leadership capability, including managing engineering teams and cross-functional project groups.
• Excellent verbal and written English communication skills.
• Strong project management and organizational ability.
• Proficiency in requirements management, technical documentation, and risk analysis tools.
• Experience interfacing with global stakeholders and external partners, especially in large, multi-national programs.
• Familiarity with relevant industry standards and regulatory frameworks (CCSDS, ECSS, ISO, etc.).
• Advanced skills in MS Office, MS Project, BI software and familiarity with simulation and payload analysis tools.