Thruster Development & Test Engineer
Portal Space Systems
We are seeking a Propulsion Engineer to own the development, performance, and delivery of our in-house developed solar-thermal thrusters for the Supernova spacecraft. This role is hands-on and highly cross-functional, spanning architecture and fabrication, with a strong emphasis on verification testing. This engineer will be responsible for ensuring that our thrusters achieve mission-critical performance and reliability, contributing directly to the propulsion system that enables Portal’s high-delta-V missions.
Responsibilities
- Own the architecture, design, development, production, and testing of additive manufactured HeX thrusters
- Dive head-first into verification test development to generate mission and business-critical data for refining thruster, system, and mission design
- Contribute directly to and integrate the work of internal designers, test engineers, and analysts to deliver high-performance, mission-capable propulsion solutions
- Deliver flight-ready primary propulsion thrusters for the Supernova spacecraft
- Support development of upstream propulsion elements, facilities, and test capabilities while contributing technical leadership as needed
- Guide vendors and suppliers by reviewing technical direction, test sequences, and risk profiles to ensure alignment with mission needs
- Act as the internal subject matter expert for propulsion test and integration issues during spacecraft build
Basic Qualifications
- 5 - 7 years of experience in spacecraft propulsion design, development, or testing, or equivalent hands-on experience in related high-performance thermal-fluid systems
- Hands-on experience with vacuum test environments or thermal-fluid test setups
- Strong understanding of thermodynamics and fluid dynamics in propulsion applications
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, highly collaborative startup environment with high levels of ownership
Preferred skills & Experience
- 7+ years of propulsion or thermal-fluid system development and testing experience and/or a Master’s degree with equivalent hands-on experience
- Knowledge of spacecraft system integration and mission-level trades involving propulsion system and vehicle performance
- Experience with high-temperature materials, multiphase propellant systems, or phase-change heat exchangers
- Experience with additive manufacturing for use in propulsion hardware
- Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional development efforts or mentor junior engineers
Compensation & Benefits
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at Portal. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage. Portal is planning to establish future access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, and various other discounts and perks. Employees typically have 2-3 weeks of paid vacation per year plus company holidays.
ITAR Requirements
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, the applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.