AOCS Engineer

NewOrbit Space; Reading; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A pioneering space technology company in the UK is seeking a skilled engineer to design and optimize satellite control systems. The role will involve developing advanced control algorithms, modeling performance, integrating hardware, and supporting on-orbit operations. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, 2-5 years of relevant experience, and proficiency in programming languages. The position offers a competitive salary, equity stake, and a comprehensive benefits package, including hybrid work options.

Benefits

Private health insurance with dental and optical coverage

Annual healthcare check-ups

Relocation package

One dedicated remote day per week

Qualifications

• 2-5 years of experience in spacecraft attitude determination and control.
• Solid understanding of closed-loop control systems and spacecraft dynamics.
• Ability to design and execute comprehensive test plans.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of spacecraft ADCS architecture.
• Design and implement advanced ADCS algorithms.
• Perform detailed sensor and actuator characterization.

Skills

Hands-on experience with ADCS systems

Proficiency in C/C++

Strong knowledge of GNC systems

Simulation and testing skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering or related field

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

Python

MATLAB

Git

Job description

At NewOrbit Space, our mission is to engineer the lowest orbiting satellites on Earth to rapidly advance global connectivity and insight.

We are currently building satellites that can operate at an altitude of just 200 km - one-third that of conventional satellites. Thanks to our propulsion system AURA, we can compensate for the atmospheric drag at ultra-low altitudes.

Your Role

This role involves designing and optimizing the architecture, algorithms, and integration of sensors and actuators to maintain precise satellite orientation. Key tasks include developing advanced control algorithms, modeling system performance, integrating ADCS hardware, and validating functionality through simulations and testing. Post-launch, the role supports on-orbit operations, including calibration, manoeuvre planning, and troubleshooting to ensure mission success.

Responsibilities

• System Architecture and Design: Lead the development and evolution of the spacecraft ADCS architecture, including the design and integration of sensors, actuators, reaction wheels, magnetoquers and control algorithms to achieve mission requirements.

• Algorithm Development: Design and implement advanced ADCS algorithms to support various pointing modes and attitude control scenarios, ensuring precise control over satellite orientation and stability.

• Simulation and Modeling: Perform detailed sensor and actuator characterization, modeling, and simulation to predict system performance and optimize the design. Develop and utilize satellite simulators for system validation.

• Hardware Integration: Specify, evaluate, and select ADCS components, including reaction wheels, magnetorquers, star trackers, IMUs, and sun sensors. Integrate these components into the spacecraft, ensuring seamless interaction with other subsystems.

• Testing and Validation: Develop and execute hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) tests, ground-based simulations, and in-orbit commissioning to validate ADCS performance. Troubleshoot and resolve issues during the integration and testing phases.

• On-Orbit Operations: Support on-orbit guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) system calibration, commissioning, and operations, including maneuver planning and fault management.

Fundamental Requirements

• Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. A Master’s degree is preferred.

• Industry Experience: Minimum of 2-5 years of experience in spacecraft attitude determination and control, with hands-on experience in the development, testing, and operation of ADCS systems.

• Technical Expertise: Strong knowledge of ADCS components and systems, including sensors (IMUs, magnetometers, star trackers) and actuators (reaction wheels, magnetorquers). Experience with GNC systems is a significant plus.

• Programming Skills: Proficiency in C/C++ for embedded systems development, with experience in Python and MATLAB for simulation and data processing. Familiarity with version control systems such as Git.

• System-Level Understanding: Solid understanding of closed-loop control systems, orbital mechanics, and spacecraft dynamics. Ability to conduct detailed trade-off analyses to optimize ADCS design.

• Simulation and Testing: Experience with hardware-in-the-loop testing, satellite simulation, and ADCS algorithm validation. Ability to design and execute comprehensive test plans.

Why NewOrbit Space?

• Pioneering Space Technology – You'll contribute to launching groundbreaking technology into space. Your work on our revolutionary ion propulsion system and ULEO satellite platform will redefine satellite operations and disrupt traditional LEO operations.

• Unmatched Ownership and Impact – You'll experience a level of ownership that's rare in the space industry. You will participate in the full lifecycle of satellite technology.

• Equity and Competitive Salary – You'll receive not just a competitive salary but also company ownership stakes. Your dedication and hard work are rewarded with a share in the technology you help build, ensuring you're a part of our collective success.

• Comprehensive Benefits Package –Including private health insurance with dental and optical coverage, annual healthcare check-ups etc.

• Hybrid Work - A hybrid setup with one dedicated remote day per week.

We provide a relocation package and sponsor your visa if you’re joining us from abroad.