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Senior Propulsion Test Engineer

San Francisco

As a team, we’ve launched five satellites into orbit, signed ten commercial deals worth over $1 billion in revenue, raised over $750 million from top global investors, and recruited a team of over 400 world-class engineers. We all work out of our (legendary) San Francisco office, which was once used to build ships during the World Wars.

Our satellites, which operate from geostationary orbit (GEO), weigh only 400 kg and utilize a proprietary software-defined radio payload. Each satellite can connect over two million people, and we’re very excited for the impact we’ll soon have in the Philippines, Peru, Mexico, and more!

Backed by substantial funding and a passionate, collaborative team, we offer a rewarding work environment where you'll learn and make a significant impact, no matter where you are in your career.

Senior Propulsion Test Engineer

As a Senior Propulsion Test Engineer at Astranis you will oversee propulsion component and system level test plan definition, test equipment design & build, and testing itself. A primary goal for this position is to increase the level of automation used in propulsion testing. You will work cross-functionally to ensure stakeholder and industry requirements are met while also considering cost and schedule implications of testing.

Role:

  • Design, build, test, and qualify tests and test equipment for Astranis propulsion systems

    • All this with a focus on automation of tests and test equipment

  • Perform component and system level design, analysis, and trade studies for test equipment

  • Manage facility projects to build infrastructure to support propulsion test requirements

  • Design and build flight-like system level testbeds

  • Develop and execute component and system level test plans

  • Work cross functionally with design and software teams to ensure all components are tested in a flight-like way

  • Assist in recruiting, interviewing, and hiring additional teammates to our rapidly-growing team

  • Train propulsion test specialists and technicians to use test equipment

Requirements:

  • Bachelor of Science degree in a technical discipline (e.g. engineering, physics)

  • 5+ years of industry experience with propulsion system testing

    • Including being familiar with industry standards

  • A passion for testing, including working in a fast-paced environment and doing hands-on design/development

  • Demonstrated ability to personally design, build, and test hardware from scratch

  • Experience with reading and writing technical standards and test plans

  • Must be onsite 5 days a week

Bonus:

  • Demonstrated experience in designing, testing, and operating spacecraft propulsion systems

  • Specific experience with electric propulsion or monopropulsion systems

  • Experience with Python, C++, and or Git

  • Familiarity with AFSPCMAN 91-710 and other Range Safety documentation and requirements

  • Familiarity with propellant material compatibility

  • Familiarity with weld and weld inspection standards and best practices

What we offer: 
 
All our positions offer a compensation package that includes equity and robust benefits.
 
Base pay is a single component of Astranis's total rewards package, which may also include equity in the form of incentive stock options, high quality company-subsidized healthcare, disability and life insurance benefits, flexible PTO, 401(K) retirement, and free on-site catered meals.
 
Astranis pay ranges are informed and defined through professional-grade salary surveys and compensation data sources. The actual base salary offered to a successful candidate will additionally be influenced by a variety of factors including experience, credentials & certifications, educational attainment, skill level requirements, and the level and scope of the position.

Base Salary

$150,000 - $175,000 USD

U.S. Citizenship, Lawful Permanent Residency, or Refugee/Asylee Status Required
(To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the United States, or other protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3))
 
Our mission and our products are meant to connect the world and everyone in it, regardless of gender, race, creed, or any other distinction. We believe in a diverse and inclusive workplace, and we encourage all people to join our team and bring their unique perspective to help make us stronger.

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