Electric Propulsion Engineer

3 months ago

Reading UK, Berkshire, United Kingdom NewOrbit Space Full time

Role Summary


This is an exhilarating opportunity to join a rapidly growing space company and contribute to pioneering, cutting-edge propulsion technology unmatched anywhere in the world. As a vital member of our team, you will play a crucial role in launching the world's first air-breathing ion propulsion system into orbit. Your personal responsibility will include design and manufacturing of our air-breathing ion propulsion system. Your role is vital in ensuring the flawless execution of our maiden in-orbit demonstration mission.


This is more than a job – it's a chance to write your name in one of the most important spacecraft missions in space technology, which will unlock currently inaccessible ultra-low orbits for satellites and become the world's first in-situ resource utilization in the history of spaceflight.


About NewOrbit


NewOrbit is developing the first hybrid of an aircraft and a satellite using Air-breathing Electric Propulsion (ABEP). While aircraft operate at altitudes of up to 20km and conventional satellites above 450km, there exists no technology which can consistently operate at altitudes between 20 km and 450 km. NewOrbit addresses this by developing the first satellite capable of bridging this gap.


At NewOrbit, we have developed a revolutionary air-breathing ion propulsion system that allows satellites to operate in ultra-low Earth orbits of 180km, three times lower than the current lowest operational altitude of the satellites. This unique technology enables us to access and explore a layer of the atmosphere previously deemed inoperable.


Operating much closer to the Earth's surface offers significant improvements in observation and connectivity. This proximity allows for much better resolution in satellite imaging, enabling new applications in high-precision environmental monitoring and wildfire prevention. It also opens possibilities for global direct-to-phone satellite internet coverage, among other game-changing applications, at self-cleaning altitudes free of space debris.


The Role


NewOrbit's flagship product is a satellite capable of operating at extremely low orbits, with its first demonstration mission set to launch next year. The key to this satellite's ability to operate at such low altitudes is its Air-Breathing Electric Propulsion (ABEP) system. As a Electric Propulsion Engineer, you will be responsible for testing this plasma propulsion system within NewOrbit’s vacuum facilities.


You will collaborate with our mechanical, electrical and control engineers to test new iterations of the ion propulsion system, ensuring its flawless operation. Your role includes providing recommendations for improvements in future design iterations, ensuring the successful delivery of the demonstration mission.


You should be capable of managing the entire testing process and taking full ownership of the system, thereby ensuring the mission's success. This includes:


  • Creating test plans
  • Assembling test hardware and electronics
  • Operating vacuum facilities
  • Performing electric propulsion tests
  • Analysing test data
  • Preparing reports and effectively communicating results
  • Reading relevant scientific articles
  • Modifying designs by preparing CAD and drawings


Please note that this role is not a typical 9-5 job and requires a great deal of passion and dedication to space technology.


What we are looking for:


  1. Strong knowledge of spacecraft Electric propulsion systems (such as RF Thrusters, Hall Effect Thrusters, Gridded Ion Propulsion, and other types) is required, preferably with an MS or PhD degree.
  2. Previous practical experience in electric propulsion testing, ideally involving RF generators, high voltage power supplies and thrust balance. You need to know the potential issues in testing propulsion systems and how to resolve them;
  3. You need to have experience working with vacuum systems (pumps, gauges and valves), power supplies, fluidic management systems (compressed gas and mass flow controllers) and data acquisition systems.
  4. A good technical understanding of plasma physics, modelling and diagnostics, ionisation processes and basic electrical engineering.
  5. Skills in CAD modelling, electronics, planning of the experiments, LabView or similar laboratory automation software.
  6. Experience in the aerospace industry is preferable.
  7. As a member of an early-stage startup, the candidate will be expected to actively participate in the daily operation, growth, and R&D planning.



Why NewOrbit


1. Pioneering Space Technology Join NewOrbit and contribute to launching groundbreaking technology into space next year. Your work on our revolutionary air-breathing ion propulsion system will redefine satellite operations in ultra-low Earth orbits.


2. Historical Milestone in Space Exploration Be part of a historic space mission that will leave a lasting legacy in space exploration. Your efforts at NewOrbit will play a crucial role in this pioneering satellite mission, setting new benchmarks in earth observation and global connectivity.


3. Unmatched Ownership and Impact At NewOrbit, you'll experience a level of ownership that's rare in the industry. You will participate in the full lifecycle of satellite technology development and face diverse challenges in preparing our propulsion for space.


4. Join Exceptional Team Work with some of the brightest engineers in the space technology sector at NewOrbit. Our team, driven by passion and skill, provides an environment for your constant growth.


5. Equity and Competitive Salary NewOrbit offers not just competitive salaries but also company ownership stakes. Your dedication and hard work are rewarded with a share in the pioneering technology you help build, ensuring you're a part of our collective success.

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