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Chief Engineer – Propulsion Systems

As Chief Engineer – Propulsion Systems you will lead the engineering team that designs and develops all of the mechanical, electrical, thermal, and fluidic interfaces that help Orbion customers integrate our products into a system that is tailored for their spacecraft. This is a customer-facing co-engineering position that requires technical proficiency as well as project management expertise. In addition to technical ownership of the propulsion modules, you will be responsible for leading the engineering team and guiding all levels of the engineering process, including design, development, modeling, and test. The ideal candidate is self-motivated and driven by a fast-paced, exciting, and collaborative work environment. This position is for a seasoned professional who can work independently, provide technical leadership to engineering teams, manage customer interfaces and relationships, and lead risk and opportunity management.

Responsibilities:

• Direct all technical development of propulsion modules from kick-off through completion, including the work of employees assigned to the programs from engineering, manufacturing, test, and administrative areas.
• Interface with sales team and customers on project specifications and requirements to ensure successful project scoping.
• Lead a cross-functional team through the development and execution of plans, schedules, budgets, designs, and procedures.
• Work with Program Managers to analyze and monitor programs to ensure adherence to contract scope of work, cost, schedule, and technical specifications.
• Work with Program Managers to develop, maintain, and present plans and progress reports to internal executive leadership and customers.
• Mentor junior engineers in engineering design, work practices, and company culture.
• Ensure that the team is developing and approving proper engineering documentation.
• Communicate with other engineering departments to coordinate activities.
• Proactively identify and address risks and develop solutions to problems which require critical thinking, creativity, and innovation to ensure the successful completion of projects/programs.
• Work autonomously with limited oversight leading projects and technical teams.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

• Must meet the definition of a United States Person.
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, or directly related degree.
• 5 years of experience in space technology development.
• Significant experience with one or more of: structural engineering design and test (acoustic vibe), thermal engineering design and test, spacecraft materials compatibility, orbital mechanics and mission design.
• Familiarity with space hardware qualification and testing.
• A solid understanding of applicable engineering principles, business practices, and experience working with hardware.
• Willingness to travel on occasion (<10%).
• Ability to collaborate in a team setting and manage engineering teams.
• Great communication skills, technical depth, breadth, and passion will enable you to work effectively with cross functional (electrical, mechanical, software, system, test) teams.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 10+ years of experience in space technology development and engineering management
• Advanced technical degree in relevant engineering disciplines
• Experience with propulsion system design and development
• Experience in aerospace manufacturing environments

COMPENSATION/BENEFITS: Enjoy a very competitive starting salary based on your knowledge and experience. In addition to the excitement of making monumental changes to the aerospace industry, employees enjoy a flexible work schedule, health insurance, prescription drug coverage, paid time off (vacation, paid holidays, sick days), contribution matching retirement plan, and employee stock ownership. The position is full-time and located in Houghton, MI. Relocation assistance is available.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by state or local law.