Head of Propulsion Development

Astrobotic Technology, Inc. is a space robotics company that seeks to make space accessible to the world. The companys suite of lunar landers delivers payloads to the Moon for companies, governments, universities, non-profits, and individuals. The company is also developing advanced space robotics capabilities such as terrain relative navigation, mobile robotics for lunar surface operations, and reliable computing systems for mission-critical applications. Originally spun out of Carnegie Mellon University in 2007, Astrobotic is pioneering affordable planetary access that promises to spark a new era of exploration, science, tourism, resource utilization, and mining. Astrobotics headquarters is in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with a second location in Mojave, CaliforniaAstrobotic is enabling sustainable access and utilization of the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Through the recent acquisition of Masten Space Systems, weve been building and flying reusable rockets for nearly two decades with the most successful rocket-powered landings in the industry. We work directly with NASA, defense, andcommercial customers to develop the tech it takes to break down the barriers to space. Together, well make wild napkin ideas possible by taking them from the labto the test site,all the way to the lunar surface and beyond.This position will lead the technical development and evolution of Astrobotics portfolio of propulsion technologies and testing capabilities. This position requires significant propulsion system design and analysis as well as extensive hands-on prototyping and testing experience, ideally including engine testing and flight operations. Significant experience with cryogenic propulsion systems required. This position will manage the Propulsion teams located in Pittsburgh, PA & Mojave, CA, and allows for applicants to work a hybrid schedule in either office location.Job Responsibilities:Primary technical and management lead for propulsion systems development and test for Astrobotics VTVL flight vehicle developments, leading diverse teams through development of new engine development programs across full engine lifecyclesManage testing of new propulsion systems, including development and entry to service of any testing facilities required, development of test procedures and checklists, and ensuring compliance with all regulatory regimes.Have a deep understanding of the systems engineering approach and requirements-based design, ensuring optimization for performance across demanding mission profiles, design for manufacturability, ease of serviceability, and market-leading reusability.Work closely with P&T Chief Engineer on technical alignment of propulsion designs with future vehicle or lander architecturesInterface with multi-disciplinary vehicle development team and integrate propulsion systems into larger system architectures.Personnel management and mentorship for propulsion and prop test team members and other employees as relevant within matrixed project activities.Own accountability of propulsion engineering readiness for ECR, component level gated review, and system level gated review approvals.Deliver conceptual and detailed design and test of Cryopropulsion systems including all combustion devices, valves, propellant feed systems, tanks, turbomachinery, and pressurization systems.Serve as the technical lead for internal R&D discussions on the development of new cryogenic and monoprop propulsion systems.Ensure configuration control is established and managed correctly across propulsion system engineering, driving baseline changes implementation via a robust engineering change process, and maintaining product traceability.Develop and manage technical baseline and execute to cost and schedule baselines, bringing a familiarity with scheduling estimating tools and methodologiesEffective people and process management, particularly an ability to understand and read team member well-being in a high-pressure test environmentServing as test support for component and integrated system testing, potentially including Xogdor and Xodiac flight vehiclesDeveloping or managing the development of component and assembly specifications, fabrication and assembly schematics and procedures for engines and GSE, and running component testingContribute to technical and safety reviews for flight vehicles and propulsion test standsProvide technical guidance to fabricators and techniciansIdentify resource needs and contribute to recruiting efforts to build the Astrobotic P&T teamSupport project management by providing task lists and task dependencies, estimating labor and material cost requirementsOther duties as assignedRequiredSkills & QualificationsGreat attitude in the face of technical challengesHands-on project experience with fluid and mechanical systems, preferably as a team or sub-team leadExtensive experience in propulsion system design, analysis, manufacture, integration, test, and flight operationsExperience with systems engineering approach and holding engineering team accountable for requirements-based definitionExperience using CAD to design parts/assembliesExperience developing hardware from concept to working prototypesExperience safely testing with and handling hazardous materials especially cryogens and high pressure gasExperience chairing, participating, or presenting to Program Change Control Boards, Engineering Review Boards, and Fracture Control BoardsKnowledge of the common propulsion system cycles and their benefits and nuances, and performing system-level engine modelingExperience with cryogenic and supercritical fluid behaviorConjugate heat transfer analysis experience with high heat flux heat exchangersAnalytical/scientific programming experience (Python, C/C++, and/or Matlab)Awareness of regulatory safety requirements (e.g., OSHA, FAA)Familiarity with aerospace quality management systems and certifications, primarily AS9100Hands-on fabrication skills and a willingness to be hands-on with pathfinder hardwareOpenness to learning and mentoring on Astrobotic design and test philosophies from existing teamDesired Skills & Qualifications:Experience leveraging additive manufacturing in engine designExperience with design and/or test of hypergolic propellant propulsion systemsFamiliarity with explosive hazard calculationsFortran programming languageSolidworks CADFLUENT CFDNASA propulsion and fluid system design and analysis softwareDesign of the ground support equipment (GSE) and tooling for engine manufacturing, testing,Design, construction, and commissioning of test facilitiesThe base salary range represents the low and high end of the anticipated salary range for this position. The actual base salary offered for this position will depend on numerous factors including individual performance, business objectives, and the candidates professional experience. Base salary is just one component of Astrobotics competitive total rewards strategy.To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.Astrobotic Technology, Inc. does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please send a request to contact@astrobotic.com#J-18808-Ljbffr

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