Principal Propulsion Engineer, Space

WHY WE’RE HERE
As a Principal Propulsion Engineer for our Space team, you own the understanding and design of all satellite propulsion subsystem to include but not limited to chemical propulsion, electric propulsion, and hybrid systems. You will be responsible for possessing deep knowledge on the state-of-the-art propulsion systems and their applicability towards different mission threads. You will be responsible for successful implementation of the propulsion system into the spacecraft system and become familiar with Anduril’s ground software enterprise and orbital flight software systems for operations. The Spacecraft propulsion team will work closely with related teams, such as the spacecraft design, GNC, ground, and flight software, etc., to help improve both the ground and satellite-based capabilities conducting highly complex missions with maneuvering capabilities but above all else will be responsible for the successful design, test and operations of the propulsion subsystem onboard Anduril’s fleet of spacecraft
This role is directly tied to ongoing, funded programs within Anduril’s Space Business Line. The programs require building and fielding a resilient, software-defined spacecraft systems across numerous mission threads. We work with mission partners and customers to deploy reliable and robust capabilities on operationally-relevant fielding timelines to meet complex challenges across the DOD and IC.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

• Own the spacecraft propulsion subsystems for various spacecraft programs in all orbital regimes and work closely with bus providers for successful implementation
• Develop modern, software-defined approaches to autonomous spacecraft operations with maneuvering capabilities to successfully accomplish mission objectives
• Own the delta-V budgets and propulsion subsystem sizing to satisfy mission requirements
• Develop appropriate test plans and procedures to validate the propulsion system during ground checkout, on-orbit calibration and commissioning and on-orbit operations
• Develop the necessary fueling plans and procedures for the implemented propulsion system
• Collaborate across multiple teams to plan, build, and test complex functionality.
• Coordinate with end-users, other operators and customers to turn needs into features while balancing user experience with engineering constraints.
• Support challenging schedules during ground testing, launch windows and on-orbit operations of the spacecraft systems.
• Work with other teams and government agencies to achieve the required licenses (DOT, etc) for transporting fully fueled or pressurized containers within the spacecraft to the appropriate test and launch facilitie

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong engineering background from industry or school, ideally in areas/fields such as Aerospace Engineering, Orbital Mechanics or other engineering degree.
• Ability to quickly understand and navigate complex systems and detailed requirements.
• Experience with chemical, electrical and hybrid propulsion sub-subsystem design for spacecraft
• Experience with managing propulsion vendors for successful delivery against mission and sub-system requirements
• Experience conducting spacecraft operations and satellite command and control with an emphasis on system reliability and uptime.
• Experience with orbital mechanics and resident space object tracking capabilities
• Capable of solving complex technical problems with little oversight.
• Clear communication and organizational skills including documentation and training material.
• Must be eligible to obtain and hold and US DoD security clearance (Secret, Top Secret, TS with SCI).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with Python, Go, C++ and/or Linux systems
• A desire to work on critical software and hardware designs in the space domain.
• Experience testing propulsion subsystems in laboratory environments that mimic the space environmental constraints
• Experience with testing/validation leveraging FlatSats, Hardware-in-the-Loop testbeds and digital spacecraft simulators through nominal and fault scenarios
• Exposure to US satellite operations policy and constraints for relevant mission threads in all orbits

BENEFITS 

• Platinum Benefits: We offer top tier platinum coverage (medical, dental, vision, life) and cover 100 percent of the premiums for you.
• 16 Weeks paid parental leave for all caregivers
• Family planning: We’re proud to offer comprehensive family planning support. Fertility planning and treatment, adoption support, gestational carrier support and fertility preservation are all included.
• Unlimited Provisions: From breakfast to dinner, our kitchen team has you covered with healthy meals and snacks at every office.
• Commuter benefits depending on region
• Relocation assistance
• Unlimited and Incentivized Time Off