Head of Launch Systems

Long Wall Company was created in 2024 to accelerate missile defense technology for the U.S. and our allies. Building on the RS1 and GS0 launch systems, Long Wall develops containerized, mass-producible missile defense systems and offers rapid, low-cost flight testing. We believe that the future of global security and stability require defensive technology that is lower cost, higher performing, better tested, and more broadly distributed than is possible today. Join us.

Mission-Driven Problem Solvers. The aerospace frontier demands ingenuity. We want Team members who approach challenges with curiosity, embrace failure as a learning opportunity, and stay focused on delivering the best solution for the mission.

Total Ownership. We seek staff and engineers who take full responsibility for contributing to and delivering flight-ready work while recognizing that no one succeeds alone. The best engineers, corporate professionals, and technicians make their teammates better. Knowing that complementary skills create force multiplication and drive mission success.

Description

We are seeking an experienced and driven Head of Launch System to lead the design, development, integration, and qualification of interceptor launchers and ground support equipment. These launchers will enable deployment of a missile defense interceptors in low cost, discreet form factors. This leader will own the full system lifecycle, from design through fielding across all subsystem domains including electrical, power, pneumatic, hydraulic, structural systems, and USG safety requirements. This role will carry forward Long Wall’s proven track record of developing mobile launch systems and leverage the heritage of operating the Ironwood ground system for liquid launch vehicles. This is a highly visible leadership role responsible for both technical excellence and people management.

B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related technical discipline.

8+ yrs of progressive engineering experience in ground support, launch ground systems, or industrial/energy ground infrastructure.

Demonstrated hands-on experience with two or more of the following system domains:

Electrical systems (power distribution, wiring harnesses, control electronics)

Power systems (prime power, UPS, switching, protection)

Pneumatic systems (high-pressure gas handling, regulators, valves)

Hydraulic systems (actuators, manifolds, fluid circuits)

Structural/mechanical systems (fabricated ground structures, mechanisms, tight tolerance structures)

Experience leading or co-leading a multi-discipline engineering team on a hardware development program.

Background in aerospace ground systems (launch vehicles, missiles, satellites) or a similar discipline (oil and gas, automotive, large field equipment)

Familiarity with requirements management, design review processes, and systems engineering fundamentals.

Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret security clearance (U.S. citizenship required).

This is an on-site role based in Long Beach, California.

Master’s degree in engineering or a related field.

Experience with canister-based or VLS (Vertical Launch System) launch system design and integration.

Background with ISO container-based mobile systems or rapidly deployable weapon/sensor platforms.

Familiarity with MIL-STD-461, MIL-STD-810, and MIL-HDBK-17 or equivalent standards.

Experience with structural fabrication and inspection to AWS D1.1, AWS 17.1, or equivalent

Active Secret or Top Secret/SCI security clearance.

Hands-on experience with the integration and testing of propulsion or energetics ground systems.

Knowledge of safety and reliability methodologies, including FMEA, FTA, and PHA.

Program management exposure (Earned Value, IMS, risk registers).

Work is performed in a combination of office, laboratory, and field environments.

May require work near launch structures, high-pressure systems, and energetic materials; PPE required.

Ability to lift up to 25 lbs; occasionally work in confined spaces or at elevated heights.

Domestic and international travel up to 25%, including extended periods at remote test sites.

Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time

Ability to use a computer to complete assignments

Ability to communicate with individuals and groups in person, by phone, and telepresence

While performing the duties of this job, the employee will typically work in an office environment