Electric Propulsion Test Engineer
Hybrid (Reading, UK)Full-timePosted 2w ago
About the role
Electric propulsion test engineer role focused on running, building, and documenting propulsion test campaigns for the AURA RF gridded ion thruster, ensuring flight-ready hardware through NewOrbit's vacuum facilities.
Responsibilities
- Plan and own the propulsion test campaigns that support NEO-1 and our customer thruster deliveries.
- Design and implement test rigs and equipment for propulsion testing.
- Assemble and maintain test hardware, electronics and vacuum facilities.
- Operate the vacuum system, RF generators, high-voltage supplies, gas feed and thrust balance during electric propulsion tests.
- Run plasma diagnostics and data acquisition, then analyse the results.
- Feed findings back to the design team quickly so each iteration improves on the last.
- Keep clear records of every test configuration and result, giving traceable evidence for system verification and qualification.
- Work with mechanical, electrical and control engineers to integrate and test each new iteration of the ion propulsion system.
Qualifications
- Practical electric propulsion testing experience, ideally with RF generators, high-voltage power supplies and thrust balances.
- Experience with vacuum systems (pumps, gauges, valves), power supplies, fluid management (high-pressure gas tanks, mass flow controllers) and data acquisition systems.
- Working knowledge of RF gridded ion thrusters and of plasma physics, diagnostics and ionisation processes.
- A rigorous approach to test planning, data quality and documentation.
- Willingness to work extended hours on-site.
Skills
Required:Electric propulsion testingVacuum systemsPlasma diagnosticsData acquisition & analysisDocumentation
Nice to have:Scripting for analysis/automation
Benefits
- Equity and competitive salary
- Private health insurance with dental and optical cover, and annual health check-ups
- Hybrid working – one dedicated remote day per week
- Visa sponsorship and relocation support
Last updated Oct 8, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.
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