Thruster Development & Test Engineer

We are seeking a Propulsion Engineer to own the development, performance, and delivery of our in-house developed solar‑thermal thrusters for the Supernova spacecraft. This role is hands‑on and highly cross‑functional, spanning architecture and fabrication, with a strong emphasis on verification testing. This engineer will be responsible for ensuring that our thrusters achieve mission‑critical performance and reliability, contributing directly to the propulsion system that enables Portal’s high‑delta‑V missions.

• Own the architecture, design, development, production, and testing of additive manufactured HeX thrusters
• Dive head‑first into verification test development to generate mission and business‑critical data for refining thruster, system, and mission design
• Contribute directly to and integrate the work of internal designers, test engineers, and analysts to deliver high‑performance, mission‑capable propulsion solutions
• Deliver flight‑ready primary propulsion thrusters for the Supernova spacecraft
• Support development of upstream propulsion elements, facilities, and test capabilities while contributing technical leadership as needed
• Guide vendors and suppliers by reviewing technical direction, test sequences, and risk profiles to ensure alignment with mission needs
• Act as the internal subject matter expert for propulsion test and integration issues during spacecraft build

• 5 - 7 years of experience in spacecraft propulsion design, development, or testing, or equivalent hands‑on experience in related high‑performance thermal‑fluid systems
• Hands‑on experience with vacuum test environments or thermal‑fluid test setups
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics and fluid dynamics in propulsion applications
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, highly collaborative startup environment with high levels of ownership

• 7+ years of propulsion or thermal‑fluid system development and testing experience and/or a Master’s degree with equivalent hands‑on experience
• Knowledge of spacecraft system integration and mission‑level trades involving propulsion system and vehicle performance
• Experience with high‑temperature materials, multiphase propellant systems, or phase‑change heat exchangers
• Experience with additive manufacturing for use in propulsion hardware
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross‑functional development efforts or mentor junior engineers