Lead Propulsion Engineer

Overview

Orbit Fab aims to create the foundational infrastructure for an in-space economy by enabling refueling capabilities for satellites. Orbit Fab develops Gas Stations in Space™ refueling infrastructure and RAFTI™ technology to deliver propellant in space, supporting lower-cost satellite construction, increased maneuverability, precise control, and extended lifespans. Since 2018, the company has launched three tankers to space and operates with offices in the US and UK, collaborating with partners and customers across the space industry.

Orbit Fab is expanding capabilities and seeks exceptional talent to tackle important challenges. Roles offer opportunities to have a demonstrable impact and enable a bustling space economy.

The Lead Propulsion Engineer is responsible for developing a team focused on propulsion products and subsystems and supporting the technical architectures and propellant roadmap for both low and high-pressure systems. The role supports product development tasks including requirements development, system layout and design, detailed CAD work, vendor management, part procurement and specification, test definition, test operation and reporting, and active reviews for critical milestone reviews and test plans.

A successful lead will guide the team to perform system definition tasks required for propulsion and fluid transfer systems in the concept definition phase of Orbit Fab missions and through the design life cycle as subsystems are handed off to the test team. This role balances technical, schedule, and cost trades and requires close collaboration with the Product/Program manager on meeting requirements and delivery dates.

• 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 Con Ops 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
• Act as a thought leader, communicating area of expertise to external interests including customers, competitors, suppliers, and other stakeholders
• Travel as needed (5% to 10% time), including international travel

• 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 tasks, including engineering from first principles
• 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,…