Electric Propulsion Engineer

Electric Propulsion Engineer

Orbion is seeking an Electric Propulsion Engineer to assist in the development and production of spacecraft propulsion devices such as Hall-effect thrusters and their associated components. This position will assist in developing research and production tests, processing the resulting data, communicating the results, and developing improved test infrastructure and automated test facilities for propulsion systems and spacecraft hardware. The ideal candidate will have experience with electric propulsion systems such as Hall-effect thrusters, gridded ion thrusters, hollow cathodes, etc. Furthermore, the candidate is expected to have experience with relevant diagnostics, vacuum systems, and test software. Multiple position levels are available, and the employee rank and compensation will be commensurate with experience.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Execute complex tests including in-vacuum hot-fire tests of electric propulsion devices
• Create development and production test facilities
• Develop and execute EP tests, including diagnostic and long-term qualification tests
• Develop and refine test procedures
• Acquire, process, and report on standard electric propulsion diagnostics
• Participate in quality-control processes
• Coordinate, direct, and assist in the maintenance of vacuum facilities
• Assist in the design and development of new propulsion systems
• Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must meet definition of US Person

• Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics or a directly related degree.  Bachelor of Science accepted with at least four years of demonstrated experience in a relevant electric propulsion laboratory
• Experience with test software and hardware such as: data acquisition hardware, oscilloscopes, power supplies, etc.
• Experience with data processing techniques and software
• Demonstrated diligence in performing complex technical operations

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with cross functional (electrical, mechanical, software, system, test) teams
• Demonstrated technical writing and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Ph.D. or 6+ years of experience in electric propulsion 
• Experience with Hall-effect thrusters or hollow cathodes
• Experience with EP diagnostics such as millinewton thrust stands, Faraday probes, Langmuir probes, etc.
• Experience in the operation and maintenance of vacuum equipment including roughing pumps, turbopumps, cryopumps, standard vacuum fittings, pressure gauges, etc.
• Experience with LabVIEW and Python
• A solid understanding of applicable engineering principles, business practices, and experience working directly with hardware in the aerospace industry

COMPENSATION/BENEFITS: Enjoy a very competitive starting salary based on your knowledge and experience. In addition to the excitement of making monumental changes to the aerospace industry, employees enjoy a flexible work schedule, health insurances, prescription drug coverage, paid time off (vacation, paid holidays, sick days), life insurances, contribution matching retirement plan, and employee stock ownership. The position is full-time and located in Houghton, MI. Relocation assistance is available.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by state or local law.