Sr. Electric Propulsion Engineer

ExoTerra Resource LLC; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 102,000 - 175,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Discretionary annual bonus

Comprehensive health benefits

Job summary

ExoTerra Resource LLC in Denver is seeking a full-time Electric Propulsion Engineer. The role involves design, analysis, and testing of Hall-effect thrusters and fluidic systems, aimed at supporting small to medium-sized projects independently.

Candidates should have over 4 years of relevant experience and strong expertise in electric propulsion systems and Hall thrusters. Relocation assistance is provided, and the position offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Must be eligible to work in the United States.
• 4+ years of related experience in electric propulsion systems.
• Experience designing for the space environment required.
• Domain expert in electric thruster development.

Responsibilities

• Complete design, analysis, and test tasks for Hall-effect thrusters.
• Perform detailed part and assembly design for fluidic systems.
• Analyze thruster performance data and document results.
• Collaborate with team members for development.

Skills

Electric propulsion systems

Hall thrusters

Communication skills

Design for space environment

Test systems operation

Education

Ph.D. or equivalent industry experience

Job description

ExoTerra is a world leader in solar electric propulsion systems and space exploration satellites. The company develops Hall Thrusters, propulsion modules, microsatellites and launch vehicle upper stages. We have been awarded multiple propulsion module and satellite contracts.

Job Summary

We are seeking a full-time Electric Propulsion Engineer. The hired employee will be responsible for completing design, analysis, and test tasks as they relate to sub‑kilowatt Hall‑effect Thrusters, xenon propellant flow control systems, and pressure management systems. This position is open to senior level candidates with closely related experience. Senior level candidates will be responsible for small to medium sized projects or components and will be expected to work with little supervision and solve complex problems independently.

Responsibilities

• Use industry standard tools and methods to perform job duties under general direction
• Detailed part and assembly design for Hall‑effect thrusters and/or flight propellant fluidic systems
• Perform analyses of Hall thruster and fluidic systems and components to ensure that company products meet requirements
• Document and implement necessary design changes to Hall thruster detailed parts to meet Design for Manufacturing and Design for Test principles
• Analyze thruster performance data, electric and magnetic fields. Ensure designs and builds meet customer requirements.
• Perform testing on Hall‑effect thrusters and fluidic systems ranging from performance measurements to environmental testing. Document test results and customer requirements, assist with the development of production procedures for designs.
• Collaborate with other subsystem team members for the development of other Hall thruster subsystem components

Required Qualifications

• Must be eligible to work in the United States
• 4+ years of related experience (including any graduate work) design, development, and flight of electric propulsion systems, and at least 4 years specifically related to Hall thrusters
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Experience designing for the space environment
• Experience operating electric propulsion test systems
• Proven experience in the electric thruster development lifecycle
• Ph.D. or equivalent industry experience in a field relevant to the development of Hall thrusters
• Domain expert in one or more areas of electric thruster development
• Understanding of low cost electric propulsion system design, build and test
• Experience operating vacuum and pressurized test systems

Special Mention

• Relocation assistance provided
• Some travel may be required

Export Control / Compliance Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., a protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Competitive salary range: $102,000.00 - $175,000.00 per year per year (dependent on experience and qualifications)

ExoTerra offers a comprehensive total compensation package, including competitive salary, a discretionary annual bonus plan, paid time off (PTO), a comprehensive health benefits package, and various other benefits. When you join our team, you’re not just an employee — you become part of a dynamic community dedicated to innovation and excellence.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

ExoTerra is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.