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Sr Electric Propulsion Engineer

Sr Electric Propulsion Engineer

Orbitt SpaceAhmedabad, Gujarat, India
1 day ago
Job description

About Orbitt Space

Orbitt Space is developing next-generation ultra-low Earth orbit (ULEO) satellite platforms and propulsion systems that redefine sustainable access to space. Our proprietary electric propulsion systems are optimized for compact, high-efficiency, and scalable performance across nano- and micro-satellite classes.

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Electric Propulsion Engineer to design, develop, and test advanced plasma and ion thrusters — for ultra low earth orbit.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design and development of electric propulsion systems , including gridded ion thrusters, Hall effect thrusters, RF plasma thrusters, and air-breathing electric propulsion systems .
  • Perform numerical and analytical modeling of plasma discharge, ion optics, beam neutralization, and overall thruster performance.
  • Develop RF power systems and propellant feed subsystems integrated with ion and plasma sources.
  • Conduct vacuum chamber testing for plasma ignition, discharge characterization, and thrust performance evaluation.
  • Implement test automation and closed-loop control systems using LabVIEW for thruster performance testing and diagnostics.
  • Support thruster control electronics development, including power conditioning, grid voltage regulation, and discharge control.
  • Analyze experimental data, generate test reports, design documentation, and performance summaries .
  • Collaborate with electronics, mechanical, and thermal design teams for seamless system integration.
  • Support mission analysis and thruster sizing for different orbital regimes (LEO, ULEO, ULEO).

Minimum Qualifications

  • Master’s degree or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Plasma Physics , or a related field.
  • Minimum 4 years of hands-on experience post-degree in Plasma and / or Propulsion systems development .
  • Strong foundation in electric propulsion principles , plasma generation, and beam dynamics.
  • Practical experience with hall effect thrusters, gridded ion thrusters or ion optics design .
  • Proficiency with vacuum systems , high-voltage power supplies , and RF power electronics .
  • Hands-on experience with test automation and closed-loop control using LabVIEW .
  • Familiarity with diagnostic instruments such as Langmuir probes, Faraday cups, thrust balances, and mass spectrometers.
  • Proficiency in COMSOL Multiphysics, ANSYS, MATLAB, and Simulink for modeling and simulation.
  • Strong understanding of DC-DC converter design , control loops , and signal conditioning .
  • Excellent analytical, documentation, and teamwork skills.

    • Preferred Experience

  • Prior work on gridded ion thrusters, Hall effect thrusters, or RF plasma sources .
  • Knowledge of ion optics fabrication , beam neutralizer design , and space-qualified grid materials (e.g., molybdenum, graphite).
  • Experience with mass flow controllers and propellant flow systems (argon, xenon, krypton).
  • Familiarity with CAD tools (SolidWorks, CATIA) for thermal and mechanical integration.
  • Exposure to space system integration , environmental testing , or vacuum-compatible hardware .
  • Experience in space R&D labs or space propulsion startups .

    • Tools & Platforms

  • Simulation : COMSOL Multiphysics, MATLAB, Simulink, ANSYS
  • Control & Testing : LabVIEW, NI DAQ, Oscilloscope, Vacuum Instrumentation
  • Project Management : Jira (Atlassian), Confluence, Notion
  • Documentation : MS Office, Excel, Power point

    • Why Join Orbitt Space

    💼 Work on frontier technologies – Plasma thrusters, Advanced Power systems, and next-gen propulsion systems.

    🧠 R&D-focused role with direct technical ownership and innovation opportunities.

    🚀 Exposure to the space technology ecosystem — direct contribution to flight hardware development.

    💰 Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.

    📈 Fast career growth in a rapidly scaling deep-tech startup environment.

    🧩 Access to advanced lab infrastructure and cutting-edge test equipment.

    🌍 Collaborative and innovation-driven culture that values creativity and experimentation.

    📚 Opportunities for publication, patents, and conference participation in collaboration with top research institutions.

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