Senior Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer

The challenge

A GEO operator needs an electric propulsion system that provides 15 years of station-keeping from a package weighing under 35 kg including propellant. Current systems achieve 12 years in a 40 kg package.

Role overview

You design electric propulsion systems for spacecraft applications, from mission requirements through thruster specification, feed system design, and integration with the spacecraft bus. The physics of electric propulsion -- specific impulse, thrust efficiency, lifetime characterization -- are the daily work.

Specializations

Technical requirements

• MS in Aerospace Engineering with propulsion focus
• 6+ years in spacecraft propulsion engineering, with experience on flight propulsion systems
• Understanding of electric propulsion physics (Hall thruster, gridded ion, electrospray)
• Experience with propulsion system design including feed systems, tankage, and valves
• Familiarity with vacuum test facilities and thruster performance characterization methods
• Proficiency in propulsion modeling tools (GFSSP, custom simulation codes, or MATLAB)

Key responsibilities

• Design electric propulsion systems (Hall effect, ion, or electrospray) for satellite missions
• Perform propulsion system sizing and trade studies based on mission delta-V and lifetime requirements
• Design propellant management systems including tanks, valves, and flow control components
• Support thruster performance characterization testing in vacuum facilities
• Develop propulsion system models for mission planning and fuel budget tracking
• Coordinate propulsion system integration with spacecraft bus teams

Compensation & Benefits

• Base salary: $170,000 - $205,000
• Stock options (Series C company)
• Annual bonus 8-10%
• Relocation support to Seattle area
• Access to in-house vacuum test facilities