Satellite ADCS/GNC/AOCS Engineer
Department: System & Integration
Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time
Location: Reading
Description
Role Summary
This is an exciting opportunity to join a rapidly growing space startup and contribute to the development of cutting-edge satellite technology. We are seeking a skilled and motivated ADCS (Attitude Determination and Control Systems) Engineer to lead the design, implementation, testing, and operation of ADCS systems for our satellites, including those intended for Ultra-Low Earth Orbit (ULEO) missions.
In this 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.
Who We Are
NewOrbit is developing the first air-breathing electric propulsion (ABEP) system to be trialed in Ultra-Low Earth Orbit (ULEO). Operating in ULEO offers game-changing benefits to satellite applications; however, it requires a propulsion system that can counteract drag from atmospheric particles. Our mission is to leverage these particles as propellant, enabling long-duration missions in these orbits.
Please note that this is not a regular 9-5 job, but that we are a start-up.
Key Responsibilities
Department: System & Integration
Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time
Location: Reading
Description
Role Summary
This is an exciting opportunity to join a rapidly growing space startup and contribute to the development of cutting-edge satellite technology. We are seeking a skilled and motivated ADCS (Attitude Determination and Control Systems) Engineer to lead the design, implementation, testing, and operation of ADCS systems for our satellites, including those intended for Ultra-Low Earth Orbit (ULEO) missions.
In this 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.
Who We Are
NewOrbit is developing the first air-breathing electric propulsion (ABEP) system to be trialed in Ultra-Low Earth Orbit (ULEO). Operating in ULEO offers game-changing benefits to satellite applications; however, it requires a propulsion system that can counteract drag from atmospheric particles. Our mission is to leverage these particles as propellant, enabling long-duration missions in these orbits.
Please note that this is not a regular 9-5 job, but that we are a start-up.
Key Responsibilities
- System Architecture and Design: Lead the development and evolution of the spacecraft ADCS 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 ADCS 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 ADCS 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 ADCS 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 ADCS design, development, testing, and operations. Communicate technical information effectively to internal teams and stakeholders.
- 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 ADCS systems.
- Technical Expertise: Strong knowledge of ADCS 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 ADCS design.
- Simulation and Testing: Experience with hardware-in-the-loop testing, satellite simulation, and ADCS algorithm validation. Ability to design and execute comprehensive test plans.
- Pioneering Space Technology: Join NewOrbit and contribute to the development and launch of groundbreaking technology that will redefine satellite operations in ultra-low Earth orbits.
- Impact and Ownership: Experience a rare level of involvement in the full lifecycle of satellite technology development, with opportunities to influence mission-critical systems.
- Equity and Competitive Salary: NewOrbit offers competitive salaries and company ownership stakes, rewarding dedication and hard work with a tangible stake in the company's success.