Sr Electric Propulsion Engineer

About Orbitt SpaceOrbitt Space is developing next-generationultra-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 motivatedElectric Propulsion Engineerto design, develop, and test advanced plasma and ion thrusters — for ultra low earth orbit.Key ResponsibilitiesDesign and development ofelectric propulsion systems , includinggridded ion thrusters, Hall effect thrusters, RF plasma thrusters, and air-breathing electric propulsion systems . Performnumerical and analytical modelingof plasma discharge, ion optics, beam neutralization, and overall thruster performance. DevelopRF power systemsandpropellant feed subsystemsintegrated with ion and plasma sources. Conductvacuum chamber testingfor plasma ignition, discharge characterization, and thrust performance evaluation. Implementtest automationandclosed-loop control systemsusingLabVIEWfor thruster performance testing and diagnostics. Supportthruster control electronicsdevelopment, including power conditioning, grid voltage regulation, and discharge control. Analyze experimental data, generatetest reports, design documentation, and performance summaries . Collaborate withelectronics, mechanical, and thermal design teamsfor seamless system integration. Supportmission analysis and thruster sizingfor different orbital regimes (LEO, ULEO, ULEO).Minimum QualificationsMaster’s degree or PhD inAerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Plasma Physics , or a related field. Minimum 4 years of hands-on experience post-degreeinPlasmaand/orPropulsion systems development . Strong foundation inelectric propulsion principles , plasma generation, and beam dynamics. Practical experience withhall effect thrusters, gridded ion thrustersorion optics design . Proficiency withvacuum systems ,high-voltage power supplies , andRF power electronics . Hands-on experience withtest automation and closed-loop controlusingLabVIEW . Familiarity withdiagnostic instrumentssuch as Langmuir probes, Faraday cups, thrust balances, and mass spectrometers. Proficiency inCOMSOL Multiphysics, ANSYS, MATLAB, and Simulinkfor modeling and simulation. Strong understanding ofDC-DC converter design ,control loops , andsignal conditioning . Excellent analytical, documentation, and teamwork skills.Preferred ExperiencePrior work ongridded ion thrusters, Hall effect thrusters, or RF plasma sources . Knowledge ofion optics fabrication ,beam neutralizer design , andspace-qualified grid materials(e.g., molybdenum, graphite). Experience withmass flow controllersandpropellant flow systems(argon, xenon, krypton). Familiarity withCAD tools (SolidWorks, CATIA)for thermal and mechanical integration. Exposure tospace system integration ,environmental testing , orvacuum-compatible hardware . Experience inspace R&D labs or space propulsion startups .Tools & PlatformsSimulation:COMSOL Multiphysics, MATLAB, Simulink, ANSYS Control & Testing:LabVIEW, NI DAQ, Oscilloscope, Vacuum Instrumentation Project Management:Jira (Atlassian), Confluence, Notion Documentation:MS Office, Excel, Power pointWhy Join Orbitt SpaceWork 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.