[29/10/2025] 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 Responsibilities- Design 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 Qualifications- Master’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 Experience- Prior 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 & Platforms- Simulation: 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.