Propulsion Engineering Lead — Remote/Hybrid Satellite Systems

Ascend Arc; Beaverton (OR); Hybrid; USD 170,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

AscendArc in Beaverton is seeking a Propulsion Engineering Lead to own end-to-end propulsion architecture for a GEO satellite program. You will drive electric propulsion design, verification, and test planning from propellant feed to thruster integration.

You will collaborate with Systems, GNC, Power, and mission operations to ensure in-orbit performance; support procurement, safety, and export eligibility in the U.S. context.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of spacecraft propulsion experience.
• Direct experience with electric propulsion (Hall-effect or gridded ion).
• Ownership of propulsion verification (test requirements, test systems, acceptance).
• Familiarity with EOR and station-keeping delta-V analysis for GEO.
• Experience driving propulsion supplier selection and long-lead procurement.
• Working knowledge of COPV and propulsion safety considerations.

Responsibilities

• End-to-end propulsion performance ownership from architecture through test to in-orbit results.
• Own the electric propulsion architecture, propellant feed, thruster integration, and PPU interfaces.

Skills

Spacecraft propulsion

Electric propulsion

Propulsion verification

Delta-V analysis

Supplier procurement

Propulsion safety

Education

Aerospace/Mechanical Eng degree

Job description

AscendArc in Beaverton is seeking a Propulsion Engineering Lead to own end-to-end propulsion architecture for a GEO satellite program. You will drive electric propulsion design, verification, and test planning from propellant feed to thruster integration.

You will collaborate with Systems, GNC, Power, and mission operations to ensure in-orbit performance; support procurement, safety, and export eligibility in the U.S. context.