Propulsion Engineer @ Astranis

Astranis is on a mission to bridge the digital divide by connecting the four billion people worldwide who currently lack internet access. We’re doing this by building the next generation of smaller, more cost-effective spacecraft to bring the world online.

As a team, we’ve launched two satellites into orbit, signed ten commercial deals worth over $1 billion in revenue, raised over $500 million from top global investors, and recruited a team of over 300 world-class engineers. We all work out of our (legendary) San Francisco office, which was once used to build ships during the World Wars.

Our satellites, which operate from geostationary orbit (GEO), weigh only 400 kg and utilize a proprietary software-defined radio payload. Each satellite can connect over two million people, and we’re very excited for the impact we’ll soon have in the Philippines, Peru, Mexico, and more!

Backed by substantial funding and a passionate, collaborative team, we offer a rewarding work environment where you’ll learn and make a significant impact, no matter where you are in your career.

Apply and join us on our journey towards global connectivity!

Propulsion Engineer - Test

As our Propulsion Engineer - Test, you will oversee propulsion component and system level test plan definition, test equipment design & build, and testing itself. A primary goal for this position is to increase the level of automation used in propulsion testing. You will work cross-functionally to ensure stakeholder and industry requirements are met while also considering cost and schedule implications of testing.

Role:

Design, build, test, and qualify tests and test equipment for Astranis propulsion systems
- All this with a focus on automation of tests and test equipment
Perform component and system level design, analysis, and trade studies for test equipment
Develop and execute component and system level test plans
Work closely with other teams to complete tasks
Assist in recruiting, interviewing, and hiring additional teammates to our rapidly-growing team.

Requirements:

Bachelor of Science degree in a technical discipline (e.g. engineering, physics)
3+ years of industry experience with propulsion system testing
- Including being familiar with industry and Range Safety standards and requirements
A passion for testing, including working in a fast-paced environment and doing hands-on design/development
Demonstrated ability to personally design, build, and test hardware from scratch
Don’t meet them all? Not a problem. Please apply even if you do not meet all these criteria
Must be onsite 5 days a week
US Citizenship or Green Card

Bonus:

Demonstrated experience in designing, testing, and operating spacecraft propulsion systems
Specific experience with low thrust monopropellant and green monopropellant systems
Experience with propulsion system process development including manifold manufacturing and welding
Experience with Python (Numpy, Scipy), C++, and Git
Familiarity with reading and writing technical standards
Familiarity with propellant material compatibility
Familiarity with weld and weld inspection standards and best practices

What we offer:

All our positions offer a compensation package that includes equity and robust benefits.

Base pay is a single component of Astranis’s total rewards package, which may also include equity in the form of incentive stock options, high quality company-subsidized healthcare, disability and life insurance benefits, flexible PTO, 401(K) retirement, and free on-site catered meals.

Astranis pay ranges are informed and defined through professional-grade salary surveys and compensation data sources. The actual base salary offered to a successful candidate will additionally be influenced by a variety of factors including experience, credentials & certifications, educational attainment, skill level requirements, and the level and scope of the position.

Base Salary

$120,000—$160,000 USD

U.S. Citizenship, Lawful Permanent Residency, or Refugee/Asylee Status Required

(To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the United States, or other protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3))

Our mission and our products are meant to connect the world and everyone in it, regardless of gender, race, creed, or any other distinction. We believe in a diverse and inclusive workplace, and we encourage all people to join our team and bring their unique perspective to help make us stronger.

Compensation Overview

Propulsion Engineer - Test

Role:

Requirements:

Bonus:

6 month growth

1 year growth

2 year growth

Benefits