Thruster Development & Test Engineer
Portal Space Systems
This job is no longer accepting applications
See open jobs at Portal Space Systems.See open jobs similar to "Thruster Development & Test Engineer" FUSE.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.
This job is no longer accepting applications
See open jobs at Portal Space Systems.See open jobs similar to "Thruster Development & Test Engineer" FUSE.