At Orbital Operations, we’re developing a high thrust space vehicle for satellite defense. Our mission is to enable rapid-response orbital capabilities, executing maneuvers without hesitation and without regret.

You will own the propulsion combustion devices and systems (igniter, main injector, TCA, etc.) for Orbital Operation’s flagship vehicle. This role involves a range of skillsets: design, analysis (structural, thermal, fluid), manufacturing, test, project management, and communication. You will work across a small team and take ownership of projects of your creation. To be successful in this role, you should be someone who thrives in ambiguity and be capable of leading projects to completion with minimal oversight. Along with these high expectations comes the opportunity to have a significant influence on a fast-growing startup company and to make rapid professional gains in an environment that encourages growth and risk.

Required Qualifications:  

• Bachelor's degree in a science or engineering field
• 5+ years of experience working in the development of propulsion components, combustion components, or related hardware
• Demonstrated ability to own hardware through a production lifecycle
• Experience applying engineering fundamentals in thermodynamics, thermal, structural, and fluids

Preferred Qualifications:  

• Master's degree or higher in aeronautical/astronautical, aerospace, or mechanical engineering
• 5+ years of experience working in the development of propulsion components, combustion components, or related hardware
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, compressible and incompressible flow, thermochemistry mechanics, and/or materials
• Hands-on experience with combustion devices hardware builds
• Experience with combustion devices manufacturing and design of manufacturability
• Experience with combustion devices testing and engine testing
• Understanding of engineering fundamentals and the ability to perform basic analysis
• Great attitude in the face of extreme challenges
• Excellent oral and written communication skills

Our Cryogenic Propellant Management System (CPMS) allows us to store liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen out in orbit. Designed for our Astraeus spacecraft, the CPMS paired with a 10,000 lbf engine enables high efficiency, high-thrust maneuverability in low earth, geosynchronous, and cislunar orbits.

Beyond defense, Astraeus is poised to transform commercial orbital logistics. It can slash LEO-to-GEO transit times from six months to just eight hours—unlocking new possibilities for satellite servicing, deployment, and beyond.