CompanyNewOrbit builds satellites that fly in very low Earth orbit, below 300 km, along with the electric propulsion that keeps them there.
Flying closer to Earth means sharper imagery from smaller optics, and an orbit that cleans itself: our satellites de-orbit within a month at end of life, leaving no debris.
Our AURA family of RF gridded ion thrusters powers our own NEO-1 satellite, with first flight planned for Q3 2028, and is also offered to other operators.
RoleElectric propulsion is what lets our satellites hold very low orbits, and our AURA RF gridded ion thruster is at the centre of it.
As Electric Propulsion Engineer, you own the design of that thruster: you calculate it, design it, build it, test it in our own vacuum facilities and feed what you learn straight into the next iteration.
You own the testing of your own designs, and your results decide what flies.
ResponsibilitiesDesignOwn the design of our RF gridded ion thruster and its performance calculations, from concept to flight configuration.
Iterate rapidly to support NEO-1 and our customer thruster deliveries.
Work with mechanical, electrical and control engineers on each new iteration of the ion propulsion system.
Build and testDesign and build the test rigs and equipment for propulsion testing.
Assemble and operate test hardware, electronics and vacuum facilities.
Run electric propulsion tests on your own designs and analyse the results.
Plan and run the test campaigns for your own designs.
VerifyTurn test results into design changes, then re-test.
Document every test configuration and result so it gives traceable evidence for system verification and qualification.
RequirementsEssentialStrong knowledge of RF gridded ion thrusters, including RF plasma generation, ion optics and neutralisation.
Hands-on electric propulsion testing, ideally with RF generators, high-voltage power supplies and thrust balances.
Experience with vacuum systems (pumps, gauges, valves), power supplies, fluid management (high-pressure ga.