Systems Verification and Validation (V&V) Specialist
Kepler Communications
Key Responsibilities:
- Define and execute verification and validation strategies for spacecraft system-level requirements, including test plans, test matrices, requirement mapping, and closure tracking
- Develop and maintain automated test architectures and scripting tools for system-level functional verification using Python, GitLab CI/CD, and related toolsets
- Development and maintenance of V&V test infrastructure, including Hardware-in-the-Loop testing systems, and flight-representative development and/or engineering setups (e.g. ‘Flatsat’)
- Lead the development and execution of functional and electrical test procedures aligned with system requirements
- Analyze test results and performance data to validate system functionality against mission requirements and operational environments
- Lead environmental test campaigns including EMI/EMC, vibration, and TVAC, owning procedure development and execution
- Contribute to launch campaign planning and support validation activities associated with launch site integration
- Collaborate closely with other Engineering teams and Flight Operations to ensure end-to-end system readiness
- Operate and train others on advanced lab equipment, such as solar array simulators, power meters, VNAs, and oscilloscopes
- Participate in design reviews and provide technical input on system-level testing strategies
- Mentor and guide junior engineers on best practices in system-level testing and requirement verification
- Contribute to test plan documentation and test report generation for delivery to internal stakeholders and external partners
- Ability to work in a lab or cleanroom environment
- Ability to travel as required to support testing and launch activities
- Ability to do shift work and, where necessary, weekend work during specific test campaigns
Required Skills & Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical, Aerospace, Computer, Software Engineering, or related field
- 5+ years of experience in system test, validation, or systems engineering (Master’s may substitute for 2 years)
- Expert-level experience developing automated test scripts and software-based verification environments
- Proficiency with test equipment (oscilloscopes, DMMs, power meters, VNAs, etc.)
- Experience with requirement verification tracking tools and test configuration management
- Ability to interpret system-level requirements and translate them into executable test activities
- Strong analytical skills and experience with data interpretation and requirement closure
- Demonstrated ability to provide technical input at program reviews and guide junior engineers
- Experience working in ISO-8 cleanroom environments and lower
Bonus Points:
- Familiarity of verification standards (ECSS, NASA, RPUG) and test protocols
- 5+ years of experience in spacecraft design, testing and validation. Experience in other technical industries such as automotive or aeronautics is suitable
- Advanced scripting and automation experience (Python, GitLab CI/CD, DevOps workflows)
