Senior Propulsion Test Engineer

Who We Are

EOI Space is developing and deploying a network of satellites in Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) to provide ultra-high-resolution Earth imagery. We aim to deliver timely and actionable data for commercial and defense applications.

We are on our way to achieving many industry firsts. This demands an ambitious team that revels in leaning into challenges, getting hands on, and working together. Does this sound like you? EOI Space is looking for a Senior Propulsion Test Engineer with a strong background in spacecraft electric propulsion with previous experience on flight programs to conduct research & development testing of spacecraft electric thrusters and complete propulsion systems, which includes supporting design of the complete propulsion subsystem, conducting component and system-level development testing, and supporting propulsion subsystem assembly, integration, and testing.

What You Will Do

This position will play a key role in the development of our spacecraft design and operations. You will be involved in the entire development lifecycle, from early prototype testing through design, assembly, qualification of a production propulsion system. This is a hands-on role encompassing propulsion testing in a space laboratory environment suitable for propulsion testing in vacuum. You will also support propulsion-level ConOps and collaborate in evolving the simulation toolsets used to assess capabilities and performance. Your expertise will contribute to the success of our mission to deliver high-quality Earth imagery that benefits society. Your role involves a combination of deep technical expertise, systems-level understanding and thinking, communication skills, and collaboration with a multi-disciplinary team to ensure the success of our space mission.

Responsibilities

• Conduct R&D electric propulsion testing in support of design, development, verification and validation of the electric thrusters and complete propulsion subsystem for an Earth-observing satellite in VLEO
• Support detail-design of the propulsion subsystem within the spacecraft architecture using SolidWorks, release manufacturing, assembly, and integration drawings, and procure propulsion components
• Support definition of hardware architecture and support trade studies for propulsion components
• Collaborate closely with structures and mechanisms, thermal, software, AI&T, and mission operations teams to integrate and test propulsion functionality hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) and mission testbeds
• Support definition of propulsion-level ConOps and support the modeling, simulation, and performance analysis of the propulsion system including thrusters, flow control components, tanks, instrumentation, tubing and fittings
• Support development and implementation of control laws for thrusters, flow control devices, tanks; support the overall system sizing and propellant technical budgets
• Work in a small team of propulsion engineers, conducting propulsion testing execution, prioritizing tasks, and providing mentorship
• Participate in design reviews, flight readiness reviews, and contribute to risk assessment and mitigation plans
• Support flight operations and anomaly resolution with in-depth analysis and post-launch tuning of thruster operations
• Contribute to company-wide system architecture discussions and roadmap planning from a propulsion perspective
  
  

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field. Master’s degree or PhD degree in Aerospace with a focused in spacecraft electric propulsion is preferred
• 5 years of relevant experience (satellite electric propulsion development, especially Hall-Effect Thrusters)
• Strong proficiency in designing, analyzing, building, testing spacecraft propulsion systems (electric propulsion is required, cryogenic or hypergolic propulsion are nice-to-have but not required)
• Experience with CAD software such as SolidWorks and good command of GD&T
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  
  

Compensation

The salary range for this role is $140,000 - $180,000 per year, depending on previous experience. Pay ranges are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual pay will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: interviews and an assessment of several factors that are unique to each candidate, job-related skills, relevant education and experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate and internal equity.

Work Location:

This role is located in Seattle, WA with up to 25% travel to Louisville, CO. R&D propulsion testing is being conducted in Seattle, WA. Satellite integration is taking place in Louisville, CO.