Propulsion Engineering Manager @ 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 Engineering Manager

As our Propulsion Team Lead you will be responsible for delivery of our propulsion systems. As a team leader, you will oversee cradle-to-grave hardware development from architecture definition through to qualification, and then supporting production and mission operations. You will also lead, and continue building, a team of world-class propulsion engineers.

Role:

Lead a team of Propulsion Engineers to design, test, and operate propulsion systems including hiring and managing direct reports.
Oversee system design including architecture development, architecture trade studies, make/buy decisions, vendor selection, and supporting analysis.
Act as a primary interface to other engineering disciplines, production, and mission operations.
Ensure competitiveness through continuous technical innovation and industry expertise
Manage propulsion-related schedule and risk in partnership with the Program Management team.
Hire and retain top-tier talent within the Propulsion Engineering team.

Requirements:

Bachelor’s Degree or higher in a technical discipline (e.g. engineering, physics) or equivalent experience
Proven leadership through project management, mentorship, and people management experience
7+ years of industry experience in a design and manufacture-related role
Previous aerospace or similar product design and production experience (full product development cycle)
Hands-on experience working with fluid or gas feed systems
Working knowledge of in-space electric and chemical propulsion systems
Exceptional time management skills, verbal & written communication skills, and organizational skills
An interest in working in a fast-paced environment and doing hands-on design/development
Don’t meet them all? Not a problem. Please apply even if you do not meet all these criteria

Bonus:

Experience with geostationary satellite missions
Experience with fluid and gas system component design
Familiarity with AFSPCMAN 91-710 and other Range Safety documentation and requirements
Experience writing Python for scientific calculation and data processing
Specific experience with low thrust monopropellant, green monopropellant, and electric propulsion systems

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

$150,000—$190,000 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 Engineering Manager

Role:

Requirements:

Bonus:

6 month growth

1 year growth

2 year growth

Benefits