Propulsion Engineering Manager (Hall Effect Thrusters)

ExoTerra Resource, LLC•Littleton, CO

1d•$180,000 - $195,000

About The Position

ExoTerra, now part of Voyager Technologies, designs and manufactures electric propulsion systems for space exploration, defense, and commercial programs. The company develops Hall thrusters, propulsion modules, and power electronics at scale. The full-time Electric Propulsion Manager leads the Propulsion engineering team's design, analysis, and test activities for sub-kilowatt Hall-effect thrusters, propellant flow control systems, and pressure management systems. This senior-level role requires functional management skills and the ability to work independently, solve complex problems, and delegate effectively. The role leads the Hall-effect thruster and propellant systems development team; oversees technical work and staff development; coordinates staffing and resource needs with program leaders; manages thruster test facility development and utilization; and directs verification, validation, manufacturing, and test planning. Candidates must meet applicable U.S. Government space technology export-control requirements. The stated salary range is $180,000–$195,000 per year, dependent on experience and qualifications.

Requirements

At least a bachelor's degree in engineering or an equivalent technical field.
At least 7 years of experience in the design, development, and flight of electric propulsion systems, including at least 4 years specifically with Hall thrusters; graduate work may count toward total experience.
Domain expertise in one or more areas of electric thruster development.
Proven experience across the electric thruster development lifecycle.
Understanding of low-cost electric thruster manufacturing and acceptance testing.
Leadership or management experience with a demonstrated history of mentoring.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Experience designing for the space environment.
Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Nice To Haves

Ph.D. or equivalent industry experience in a field relevant to Hall thruster development.

Responsibilities

Lead the Hall-effect thruster and propellant systems development team.
Provide technical oversight of the functional area and review staff work for technical integrity.
Conduct annual performance reviews, make promotion recommendations, and coordinate disciplinary actions with HR.
Mentor and train staff, and establish and track individual development goals.
Coordinate with Program Managers and IPT Leads to determine resource needs and assign staff according to company priorities.
Lead engineering and failure review boards on topics within the functional area.
Manage Hall thruster test facility development and utilization.
Develop Hall thruster and propellant systems verification and validation plans.
Define manufacturing and test plans to produce low-cost Hall thrusters.
Collaborate with other subsystem team members on Hall thruster component development.