Sr Electric Propulsion Engineer

About Orbitt SpaceOrbitt Space is developing next-generation ultra-low Earth orbit (ULEO) satellite platforms and propulsion systems that redefine sustainable access to space. Our proprietary electric propulsion systems are optimized for compact, high-efficiency, and scalable performance across nano- and micro-satellite classes.We are seeking a skilled and motivated Electric Propulsion Engineer to design, develop, and test advanced plasma and ion thrusters — for ultra low earth orbit.Key ResponsibilitiesDesign and development of electric propulsion systems, including gridded ion thrusters, Hall effect thrusters, RF plasma thrusters, and air-breathing electric propulsion systems.Perform numerical and analytical modeling of plasma discharge, ion optics, beam neutralization, and overall thruster performance.Develop RF power systems and propellant feed subsystems integrated with ion and plasma sources.Conduct vacuum chamber testing for plasma ignition, discharge characterization, and thrust performance evaluation.Implement test automation and closed-loop control systems using LabVIEW for thruster performance testing and diagnostics.Support thruster control electronics development, including power conditioning, grid voltage regulation, and discharge control.Analyze experimental data, generate test reports, design documentation, and performance summaries.Collaborate with electronics, mechanical, and thermal design teams for seamless system integration.Support mission analysis and thruster sizing for different orbital regimes (LEO, ULEO, ULEO).Minimum QualificationsMaster’s degree or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Plasma Physics, or a related field.Minimum 4 years of hands-on experience post-degree in Plasma and/or Propulsion systems development.Strong foundation in electric propulsion principles, plasma generation, and beam dynamics.Practical experience with hall effect thrusters, gridded ion thrusters or ion optics design.Proficiency with vacuum systems, high-voltage power supplies, and RF power electronics.Hands-on experience with test automation and closed-loop control using LabVIEW.Familiarity with diagnostic instruments such as Langmuir probes, Faraday cups, thrust balances, and mass spectrometers.Proficiency in COMSOL Multiphysics, ANSYS, MATLAB, and Simulink for modeling and simulation.Strong understanding of DC-DC converter design, control loops, and signal conditioning.Excellent analytical, documentation, and teamwork skills.Preferred ExperiencePrior work on gridded ion thrusters, Hall effect thrusters, or RF plasma sources.Knowledge of ion optics fabrication, beam neutralizer design, and space-qualified grid materials (e.G., molybdenum, graphite).Experience with mass flow controllers and propellant flow systems (argon, xenon, krypton).Familiarity with CAD tools (SolidWorks, CATIA) for thermal and mechanical integration.Exposure to space system integration, environmental testing, or vacuum-compatible hardware.Experience in space R&D labs or space propulsion startups.Tools & PlatformsSimulation: COMSOL Multiphysics, MATLAB, Simulink, ANSYSControl & Testing: LabVIEW, NI DAQ, Oscilloscope, Vacuum InstrumentationProject Management: Jira (Atlassian), Confluence, NotionDocumentation: MS Office, Excel, Power pointWhy Join Orbitt Space💼 Work on frontier technologies – Plasma thrusters, Advanced Power systems, and next-gen propulsion systems.🧠 R&D-focused role with direct technical ownership and innovation opportunities.🚀 Exposure to the space technology ecosystem — direct contribution to flight hardware development.💰 Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.📈 Fast career growth in a rapidly scaling deep-tech startup environment.🧩 Access to advanced lab infrastructure and cutting-edge test equipment.🌍 Collaborative and innovation-driven culture that values creativity and experimentation.📚 Opportunities for publication, patents, and conference participation in collaboration with top research institutions.