Lead Magnetics Engineer - Spacecraft

Overview

Lead Magnetics Engineer – Build the Magnetic Systems Powering Autonomous Space Structures!

Golden, Colorado | Onsite

Opportunity

Summary:

A seed-stage space technology startup is developing modular spacecraft platforms designed to autonomously assemble and reposition themselves once deployed in orbit. At the heart of this capability are precision magnetic systems that allow independent structures to identify, attract, align, and connect without the need for complex mechanical docking hardware. As the Lead Magnetics Engineer, you will own the architecture and development of these electromagnetic systems from early modeling through fully validated, flight-ready hardware.

This is a unique opportunity to take advanced concepts in hybrid magnetics and apply them directly to real orbital missions. Your work will define how these spacecraft interact, cooperate, and perform together in demanding environments.

We are a venture-backed space startup focused on building self-assembling spacecraft platforms and in-orbit infrastructure. Our small, multidisciplinary team is designing hardware that can be launched compactly and then autonomously form larger systems in space through coordinated magnetic behaviors. We move quickly from simulation to prototyping and flight-oriented development, giving engineers real ownership and impact on mission-critical technology.

• Develop the overall magnetics strategy enabling autonomous assembly, alignment, and connection between modular spacecraft
• Create attraction, retention, and actuation concepts using hybrid and electro-permanent magnetic approaches
• Perform field modeling, simulation, and optimization to shape system performance and force behavior
• Design coils, assemblies, drivers, and sensing approaches suitable for vacuum and orbital conditions
• Build and iterate prototype hardware through lab testing and qualification preparation
• Evaluate reliability, manufacturability, and lifecycle durability across the electromagnetic platform
• Partner with GNC, structural, avionics, and software teams to integrate magnetic behavior at the system level
• Support technology maturation, risk reduction, and IP development initiatives

• 5+ years of hands-on experience designing electromagnetic systems or magnetic actuation hardware
• Strong proficiency using EM simulation and finite element tools such as COMSOL, FEMM, or ANSYS Maxwell
• Demonstrated background validating magnetic hardware experimentally, including force and control testing
• Ability to translate modeling and analysis into compact, high-performance physical designs
• Experience leading technical development as a subject-matter expert
• Advanced degree in a relevant field such as electrical engineering, applied physics, or mechanical engineering (PhD preferred)

• Direct experience designing hardware intended for spacecraft or spaceflight applications
• Exposure to environmental testing, radiation considerations, thermal challenges, or vacuum performance
• Background working with precision sensing, actuation, or control systems in aerospace environments
• Experience taking hardware from prototype through flight-intent maturity
• Prior work within small engineering teams or startup environments

• Lead a defining technology area with direct system-level impact
• Help take advanced magnetics from concept into orbit
• Work alongside a driven, technically strong team solving first-of-kind challenges
• Meaningful ownership and real responsibility in a fast-growing startup environment
• Opportunity to grow as the product roadmap expands

$130,000 - $180,000