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Orbit Fab · 6 days ago

Lead Propulsion Engineer

Lafayette, CO

Full-time

Hybrid

Senior Level, Lead/Staff

7+ years exp

Orbit Fab is focused on creating the infrastructure for a sustainable in-space economy, pioneering technologies for satellite refueling. The Lead Propulsion Engineer will develop a team for propulsion products and manage the technical architecture and propellant roadmap, ensuring successful product development and collaboration with stakeholders.

AerospaceEnergyInfrastructureManufacturingSpace Travel

No H1B

U.S. Citizen Only

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

Qualification

Propulsion system designChemical propellant systems3D modeling/CADFluid system componentsTeam leadershipCommunicationIndependent workMultidisciplinary collaboration

Required

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

Preferred

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