Propulsion Engineer

Location: Lafayette Colorado

Salary Range: $122,000 – $160,000 per annum, based on experience

About Orbit Fab:

Orbit Fab is redefining how spacecraft operate in orbit by building the infrastructure for in-space refueling. Our mission is to extend the life of satellites, reduce costs, and unlock entirely new capabilities for space operations. By developing advanced propellant transfer systems and orbital fueling technology, they’re helping shift the space industry from single-use missions to a more sustainable, serviceable ecosystem.

The team is made up of engineers and operators who thrive on solving complex, first-of-their-kind challenges and are passionate about shaping the future of space logistics.

The Opportunity

This is a chance to take ownership of propulsion and fluid systems design for cutting-edge spacecraft refueling technology, working from first principles through testing and operation. You’ll play a key role in developing and integrating propellant storage, transfer, and performance systems while collaborating cross-functionally to bring mission-critical hardware to life.

Your Role

Experience, Qualifications, and Characteristics

• 5 years years of experience in design, development, analysis, and/or test for spacecraft fluid/propulsion systems or components
• 1 years of management experience
• Would consider a candidate not from the space industry (e.g. turbomachinery or valves background) if they have extensive experience in designing fluid systems and performing fluid analysis (e.g. hand calcs, CFD analysis, simulating fluid transfer, etc.)
• Ability to work independently and take on own tasks
• Strong capability in engineering from first principals
• Familiarity with spacecraft assembly, integration, and test
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills

Nice to Have

• Experience with storable chemical propellant systems or components
• Working knowledge of range safety requirements (AFSPCMAN 91-710)
• Understanding of qualification, acceptance, and protoqualification verification approaches
• Experience working with hydrazine
• Experience fueling spacecraft on the ground
• Experience with applicable industry standards such as SMC-S-016 and AIAA S-080
• Experience taking a product from concept to operation
• Experience with spacecraft and subsystem environment definition (radiation, structural loads, thermal, EMI/EMC, orbital debris, etc.) and design approaches (at LEO, GEO, and beyond)

Responsibilities

• Design and procurement of chemical propellant storage, feed, and transfer systems
• Develop and procure propellant tanks and fluid system components for storable propellants
• Coordinate with stakeholders on the end-to-end satellite refueling process, including propulsion system performance for proximity operations, the effects of slosh, fluid analysis, and fuel transfer operations procedures.
• Provide support to manufacturing, assembly, integration, and test teams during build and test of fluid subsystems.
• Lead and own ICD efforts for the propulsion system by working with cross functional teams for ground testing and spacecraft design
• Identify technical issues and proactively implement resolutions to mitigate schedule and cost impacts
• Provide SME input in the development of systems engineering products, spacecraft architecture, trade studies, requirements development, verification, and validation plans
• Ability to act as a thought leader, communicating your area of expertise to external interests including customers, competitors, suppliers, and other stakeholders

Orbit Fab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.