Propulsion Test Team Lead

Astranis builds advanced satellites that provide dedicated, secure networks across the globe. With five satellites on orbit and many more set to launch, the company is servicing a backlog of more than $1 billion of commercial contracts.

As Propulsion Test Team Lead you will be responsible for testing and fueling our propulsion systems, leading a world‑class team of engineers and technicians.

• Lead a team of propulsion test engineers and technicians, including hiring and managing direct reports.
• Create and enforce quality standards and processes to ensure proper verification of unit‑level and system‑level hardware.
• Manage day‑to‑day testing activities, including assignment and tracking of work across production and development programs.
• Create a culture of safety and quality throughout the workplace.
• Evaluate proposed designs for testability and work closely with design engineering teams to enable factory output targets.
• Maintain detailed schedules and communicate deadlines with stakeholders.
• Own the test infrastructure needed for current and next‑generation propulsion systems, including safety equipment and test beds.
• Work hands‑on with flight hardware to ensure mission success.
• Develop ironbirds (test beds) for flight‑like development and qualification testing.

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering.
• 5+ years of professional experience in a hardware manufacturing or production environment (aerospace preferred).
• Demonstrated ability to manage a lab or production facility.
• Proven leadership through project management, mentorship, or people‑management experience.
• Hands‑on experience with fluid or gas feed systems.
• Experience using ERP/MES systems to create procedures and enforce quality processes.
• Strong written and verbal communication, organizational skills, and attention to detail.
• Strong fluid systems engineering intuition and critical thinking; ability to turn high‑level requirements into clear design/test objectives.

• Direct management experience of engineers or technicians.
• Experience with fluid and gas system component design.
• Experience with low‑thrust monopropellant, green monopropellant, and electric propulsion.
• Experience in spacecraft fueling and launch operations.
• Familiarity with AFSPCMAN 91‑710 and other range safety documentation.

Competitive total rewards that include equity, high‑quality company‑subsidized health care, disability and life insurance, flexible PTO, a 401(k) retirement plan, and free on‑site catered meals.

Base salary range: $160,000 – $195,000 USD.

U.S. Citizenship, lawful permanent residency, or protected status (refugee/asylee) required.

Astranis complies with U.S. government space technology export regulations and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected group status under applicable law.