Lead AOCS Engineer

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 breathe air and operate at an altitude of just 200 km - one-third that of conventional satellites. Thanks to our proprietary propulsion system we can compensate for the atmospheric drag at ultra low altitudes using the air as propellant.

Please note that as we prepare for our maiden satellite mission, we are in a critical growth phase. Our roles will often require extended hours and are not typical 9-to-6 positions.

Your Role

You will work closely with a multidisciplinary team to ensure the accurate and reliable control of our spacecraft’s orientation and trajectory, supporting the success of our pioneering air-breathing electric propulsion system.

Key Responsibilities

• System Architecture and Design: Lead the development and evolution of the spacecraft AOCS 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 AOCS 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 AOCS 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 AOCS 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.
• Documentation and Reporting: Produce and maintain detailed documentation for AOCS design, development, testing, and operations. Communicate technical information effectively to internal teams and stakeholders.

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 AOCS systems.
• Technical Expertise: Strong knowledge of AOCS 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 AOCS design.
• Simulation and Testing: Experience with hardware-in-the-loop testing, satellite simulation, and AOCS algorithm validation. Ability to design and execute comprehensive test plans.

Why NewOrbit Space?

• Pioneering Space Technology: You will contribute to launching groundbreaking technology into space. Your work on our revolutionary air-breathing ion propulsion system will redefine satellite operations in ultra-low Earth orbits.
• Unmatched Ownership and Impact: You will 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 will 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.