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NewOrbit Space

Plasma Engineer

Reading Full-Time 28800 - 43200 £ / year (est.) No home office possible

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At a Glance

Tasks: Design and optimise plasma thrusters for revolutionary satellite propulsion systems.
Company: Join NewOrbit Space, pioneering ultra-low Earth orbit satellite technology.
Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, equity options, and comprehensive health benefits.
Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking space tech that redefines satellite operations and global connectivity.
Qualifications: Advanced degree in Aerospace Engineering or Plasma Science; hands-on plasma research experience required.
Other info: Expect a dynamic work environment with extended hours during critical growth phases.

The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.

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At NewOrbit Space, our mission it 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 do experimental and theoretical investigation of RF discharge plasma for various (electric propulsion) plasma devices, including thrusters and cathodes, which are crucial subsystems of our air-breathing propulsion system.

Key Responsibilities

Plasma System Design: Design, assemble, test, and optimize plasma thrusters and cathodes with minimal supervision, contributing to the development of cutting-edge propulsion technology.
Plasma Research: Conduct experimental and theoretical research into the behavior and dependencies of RF discharge plasma, with a focus on applications in electric propulsion systems.
Diagnostic Techniques: Utilize advanced plasma diagnostics, including Faraday probes, Langmuir probes, and other relevant equipment, to analyze and optimize plasma performance.
Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including propulsion, electronics, and satellite engineers, to integrate plasma subsystems into the overall satellite architecture.
Documentation: Maintain detailed records of experiments, designs, and test results, ensuring that all findings are well-documented and communicated effectively to the broader team.
Educational Background: Advanced degree (MEng, MSc, or PhD) in Aerospace Engineering, Plasma Science, or a related field, with a strong focus on low-pressure plasma physics and vacuum technology.
Industry Experience: Relevant experience in plasma research and development, with a track record of successful projects in plasma engines, various plasma sources, PVD, accelerometers or other,
Technical Expertise: Strong theoretical and practical understanding of low-pressure plasma physics, vacuum technology, and RF plasma devices (e.g., ICP, CCP, Helicon, and magnetized plasma).
Hands-On Skills: Proficiency in designing, assembling, testing, and optimizing plasma thrusters and cathodes, with experience using electronics lab equipment and plasma diagnostics.
Communication Skills: Excellent communication, leadership, and teamwork abilities, with the capability to collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
Innovation and Drive: A passion for groundbreaking space science and a desire to contribute to innovative propulsion technologies that will redefine satellite operations.

Additional (Preferred) Requirements

Research Experience: Experience in research and development projects, including PhD research related to plasma and electric propulsion systems.
Optimization Skills: Experience in planning and executing complex multi-parametric optimization tests for plasma devices.
CAD Proficiency: Basic experience with CAD modeling and drawings, using tools such as SolidWorks, CATIA, or NX.

Why NewOrbit Space?

Pioneering Space Technology – You\’ll 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\’ll 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\’ll 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.

Seniority level

Seniority level

Entry level

Employment type

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Job function

Research and Engineering
Industries

Space Research and Technology, Engineering Services, and Defense and Space Manufacturing

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