Lead Propulsion Engineer

Orbit Fab

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The core function of the Lead Propulsion Engineer is to develop a team for propulsion products, subsystems and support the technical architectures and propellant roadmap for both low and high pressure systems. The Lead Propulsion Engineer is expected to support the product development of a variety of different tasks including requirements development, system layout and design, detailed CAD work, vendor management, part procurement and specification, test definition, test operation and reporting, as well as being an active reviewer for critical milestone reviews and test plans. A successful lead will guide the team to perform the system definition tasks required for propulsion and fluid transfer systems in the concept definition phase of Orbit Fab missions, the design life cycle phases as the vehicle or subsystems are handed off to the test team. This role will require balancing the technical, schedule and cost trades of the product and work closely with the Product/Program manager on meeting requirements and delivery dates.

Requirements

7+ years of experience in design, development, and/or test for spacecraft fluid/propulsion systems, mechanisms and/or components
Experience with storable chemical propellant systems or components, fluid and instrumentation diagrams, pressurized systems, sealing devices, pumps, valves and regulators
Working knowledge of range safety requirements (AFSPCMAN 91-710)
Understanding of qualification, acceptance, and proto-qualification verification approaches
Experience leading and growing a multi-disciplinary team to support project development
Ability to work independently and take on own tasks, including 'blank page engineering' and engineering from first principals
Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team
Ability to communicate priorities to meet company objectives and commitments
Proficiency with 3D modeling, CAD designs, and tools
Familiarity with spacecraft or component assembly, integration, and test
Experience identifying, communicating and driving requirement definition and discovery for customers
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
Track record of executing and producing space hardware from prototyping, qualification and production

Nice To Haves

Experience working with hydrazine and satellite fuel systems
Experience fueling spacecraft on the ground
Electric propulsion system design experience
Experience with applicable industry standards such as SMC-S-016 and AIAA S-080
Experience with both low- and high-budget space system development
Experience taking a product from concept to operation
Experience with spacecraft and subsystem environment definition (radiation, structural loads, thermal, EMI/EMC, orbital debris, etc.) and design approaches (at LEO, GEO, and beyond)
General understanding of mechanical manufacturing processes, including machining and welding

Responsibilities

Design and procurement of chemical propellant storage, feed, and transfer systems
Develop requirements and procure propellant tanks and fluid system components for storable propellants
Coordinate with stakeholders to develop ConOps for the end-to-end satellite refueling process, including propulsion system performance for proximity operations, the effects of slosh, and fuel transfer operations procedures.
Lead technical reviews and effectively communicate with internal and external stakeholders
Architect a common propulsion subsystem to support multiple projects and assign resources to support program needs
Lead and own ICD efforts for the propulsion system by working with cross functional teams for ground testing and spacecraft design
Manage, guide, monitor and grow a functional team through mentorship and technical leadership
Identify technical issues and proactively implement resolutions to mitigate schedule and cost impacts
Provide oversight and review of project proposals, and communicate resource needs across functional areas
Provide SME input in the development of systems engineering products, spacecraft architecture, trade studies, requirements development, verification, and validation plans
Ability to act as a thought leader, communicating your area of expertise to external interests including customers, competitors, suppliers, and other stakeholders
Ability to travel (5% to 10% time expected), including international travel as needed .