Propulsion Engineer

Fluids And Propulsion Engineering ManagerOrbit Fab's mission is to create the foundational infrastructure that will fuel a bustling in-space economy, capable of sustaining permanent jobs in space. Today, satellites cannot be refueled, which severely constrains their mobility and inhibits the development of economic activities in space.Orbit Fab breaks the single-use paradigm, pioneering our Gas Stations in Space™ refueling infrastructure and RAFTI™ technology to deliver propellant in space, enabling lower-cost satellite construction, increased maneuverability, precise control, and extended lifespans. The possibilities are unprecedented, opening the doors to unimagined operational strategies and business models.Since our establishment in 2018, we have already achieved the successful launch of three tankers to space. With offices in both the US and UK, we are working in close collaboration with partners and customers across the space industry. Orbit Fab is rapidly ramping up capabilities and requires exceptional talent to tackle important challenges. Our roles offer wide ranging opportunities to have a demonstrable impact and enable a bustling space economy.As the Fluids and Propulsion Engineering Manager, you would lead the propulsion team, which consists of fluids, propulsion, and thermal engineering responsibilities. You would lead the team from concept designs to producing flight-ready hardware. We have multiple ongoing projects, and we need someone with excellent technical understanding and the ability to juggle priorities. You would be responsible for understanding people's needs, business needs, and technical requirements.The expectation for this role is to be a player-coach with 50-75% of time spent on leadership responsibilities and 25-50% of time spent on individual contributor work.ResponsibilitiesLead the propulsion team through multiple concurrent projects, meeting deadlines on time.Delegate effectively so that the right team members are working on tasks that suit their skills, interest, and technical growth path.Guide process development and adherence for the propulsion engineering teamReview thermal-fluid system architecture affecting the mission as a whole and the products that will interface with the hardwareSupport analysis required to satisfy internal requirements for hardware performance, life, and environmentSupport assembly and test activitiesReview engineering drawings; ensure best practices are applied to released drawings. Prepare and give reviews of team's work prior to critical milestones.Proactively identify roadblocks to technical progress and take steps to mitigate/avoid themDeliver effective presentations to the teamHold weekly one-on-ones with team members and provide mentorshipDesign chemical propellant storage, feed, and transfer systemsDevelop and procure propellant tanks and fluid system components for storable propellantsPerform flow rate and pressure analysis on fluids systemsEstablish and maintain effective working relationships within the department. Interact appropriately with others to maintain a positive and productive work environment.Own the design and analysis of spacecraft systems, fluidic components, and ground support equipment. Develop and maintain detailed CAD models and P&ID documentation. Perform analyses and testing to validate designs and ensure compliance.Provide SME input in the development of engineering products, spacecraft architecture, trade studies, requirements development, verification, and validation plansExperience, Qualifications, and Characteristics· Bachelor's degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or other related discipline7+ years of experience in design, development, and/or test for spacecraft fluid/propulsion systems, mechanisms and/or componentsProven leadership experience in a responsible engineer, project lead, or team management capacityExperience taking a product from concept to operationAbility to work independently and take on own tasks, including 'blank page engineering' and engineering from first principalsExperience with fluid and instrumentation diagrams, pressurized systems, sealing devices, pumps, valves and regulatorsGeneral understanding of thermal engineering design principlesExperience performing hand calculations and analysis to support system design and developmentUnderstanding of qualification, acceptance, and proto-qualification verification approachesProficiency with 3D modeling, CAD designs, and toolsKnowledge of space rated materials and design trades around material choicesCan work autonomously, views work with a critical eyeAn effective sense of urgency and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, small company environmentAbility to work in a multidisciplinary teamExcellent communication, analytical, organizational, strategic, statistical, and personal skills· Must be willing and able to work a hybrid schedule (3-5 days a week on site) out of our Lafayette, CO officeNice to Have10+ years of experience in design, development, and/or test for spacecraft fluid/propulsion systems, mechanisms and/or components2+ years of experience managing teamsExperience with storable chemical propellant systems or componentsExperience performing analysis with GFSSP, Ansys, and MATLABStrong foundation in thermal engineeringExperience with spacecraft or launch vehicle operationsAdvanced degree in an engineering discipline or related fieldWorking knowledge of range safety requirements (AFSPCMAN 91-710)Understanding of qualification, acceptance, and protoqualification verification approachesExperience with spacecraft and subsystem environment definition (radiation, structural loads, thermal, EMI/EMC, orbital debris, etc.) and design approaches (at LEO, GEO, and beyondExperience in a startup environmentThis position is a hybrid work model, requiring time both in our Lafayette, CO office and remotely.At Orbit Fab, we value respectful debate and people who aren't afraid to challenge assumptions. We strongly encourage you to apply if you feel you would succeed in the role above.Location and BenefitsOrbit Fab is based out of Lafayette, Colorado and all roles are based in Colorado. We offer fully covered benefits, discretionary time off, and flexible work hours.EligibilitySome job roles may be limited to US Persons (22 CFR 120.62 "U.S. person").Orbit Fab Inc does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.The estimated salary range for this position is 144,000 - 186,000 USD per year