Satellite Architect

Role Summary

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Satellite Architect to spearhead the design and development of our next-generation satellite systems. This role involves overseeing the integration of various subsystems, ensuring that the satellite meets mission requirements, and guiding the overall system architecture from concept through to deployment.

About NewOrbit Space

NewOrbit is developing the first air-breathing electric propulsion (ABEP) system to be trialed in Ultra-Low Earth Orbit (ULEO). Operating in ULEO offers game-changing benefits to satellite applications; however, it requires a propulsion system that can counteract drag from atmospheric particles. Our mission is to leverage these particles as propellant, enabling long-duration missions in these orbits.

Please note that this is not a regular 9-5 job, but that we are an early stage start-up.

Responsibilities

• System Architecture Design: Lead the conceptualization and design of the overall satellite architecture, ensuring that all subsystems (e.g., propulsion, communication, power, thermal control) are optimally integrated to meet mission objectives.

• Mission Requirements Analysis: Work closely with mission planners and stakeholders to define satellite requirements, translating mission needs into technical specifications and system-level designs.

• Subsystem Integration: Oversee the integration of all satellite subsystems, ensuring that they function together cohesively and meet performance, reliability, and safety standards.

• Trade-Off Analysis: Conduct and manage trade-off studies to evaluate different design options, balancing factors such as cost, weight, power consumption, and performance to optimize the satellite architecture.

• Technical Leadership: Provide technical guidance to engineering teams across various disciplines, ensuring that all design and development activities align with the overall system architecture and mission goals.

• Standards Compliance: Ensure that the satellite design complies with relevant industry standards (e.g., ECSS, NASA standards), and support the implementation of best practices in systems engineering.

• Documentation and Communication: Produce and maintain detailed documentation of the satellite architecture, design decisions, and subsystem interfaces. Communicate architecture-related information clearly to internal teams and external partners.

• Risk Management: Identify potential risks in the satellite design and development process, and work with cross-functional teams to develop mitigation strategies.

• Testing and Validation Support: Collaborate with the AIT (Assembly, Integration, and Testing) team to define testing protocols, validate system performance, and troubleshoot any issues that arise during integration and testing phases.

Fundamental Requirements

• Educational Background: Advanced degree (MSc, MEng, or PhD) in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related field, with a strong focus on satellite systems or space technology.

• Industry Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in satellite design, development, and systems engineering, with a proven track record of leading the architecture of complex satellite systems.

• Subsystem Expertise: Deep understanding of satellite subsystems, including propulsion, communication, power, thermal control, and avionics, with experience in their integration and optimization.

• System-Level Thinking: Strong ability to think at the system level, understanding the interactions and dependencies between various satellite subsystems and their impact on overall mission performance.

• Technical Leadership: Demonstrated experience leading multidisciplinary engineering teams, with the ability to mentor and guide engineers across different domains.

• Standards Knowledge: Familiarity with space industry standards (e.g., ECSS, NASA standards) and experience ensuring compliance in satellite design and development.

• Communication Skills: Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

• Problem-Solving Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a methodical approach to addressing challenges in satellite architecture and system integration.

• Innovation and Creativity: A passion for innovation, with the ability to think creatively and propose novel solutions to complex engineering challenges.

Additional Requirements

• Project Management: Experience in project management, with the ability to coordinate multiple aspects of satellite design and development, manage timelines, and ensure successful delivery of satellite systems.

• Collaboration: Strong collaboration skills, with experience working effectively within multidisciplinary teams and across different levels of the organization.

• Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changing project requirements and timelines, with a proactive approach to managing multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Why NewOrbit

• Pioneering Space Technology: Contribute to the development and launch of groundbreaking technology that will redefine satellite operations in ultra-low Earth orbits.

• Impact and Ownership: Experience a level of involvement that allows you to have a significant impact on the success of our missions. Participate in the full lifecycle of satellite technology development and see your work take flight.

• Equity and Competitive Salary: NewOrbit offers competitive salaries and company ownership stakes, rewarding dedication and excellence with a tangible stake in the company's success.

Application Process

Our interview process consists of four stages. The initial stage involves a call with Alex, followed by two interviews with our founders, Anatolii and Ruslan. If you progress successfully through these stages, you will be invited to complete a set of technical tasks, which will be reviewed and discussed during the fourth and final interview. If feasible, we would also like to invite you to our facilities in Reading as part of the final interview. Here you will get the chance to meet the rest of our team and tour our laboratories and office spaces.