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Dark Fission Space Systems provided pay rangeThis range is provided by Dark Fission Space Systems. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
Base pay range$125,000.00/yr - $155,000.00/yr
Additional compensation typesRSUs
Dark Fission Space Systems Overview We're working to create a true revolution in in-space transportation, one that provides a foundation for all future exploration and utilization of space. Dark Fission Space Systems will build and fly the nuclear thermal rocket, making fast, efficient, and reliable transport a reality in the cislunar domain and beyond. We've been awarded work by the federal government to validate key elements of Dark Fission's DARKFORCE reactor, engine, and orbital transfer vehicle. If this sounds exciting to you, keep reading.
Position Narrative We are seeking an Electrical Engineer to lead the design, assembly, and testing of a "flatsat" orbital transfer vehicle (OTV)—a ground-based, hardware-in-the-loop testbed integrating all major subsystems of our revolutionary nuclear thermal rocket-powered OTV. This flatsat will simulate on-orbit operations, incorporating guidance, navigation, and control (GNC); communications; electrical power generation and storage; command and data handling; and OTV-specific systems such as proximity operations sensors and algorithms, grapples, refueling ports, and primary propulsion. Our ideal candidate is a creative and driven problem solver with experience in satellite technology and a demonstrated ability to tackle the unique electrical engineering challenges of an OTV. In this role, you will collaborate closely with our mechanical engineering team, particularly the fuel element design lead, to ensure the flatsat accurately reflects or simulates the rocket's operation. This is a full-time position located in Loudoun County, Virginia, with occasional travel to vendors and development partners within the United States.
Compensation, Work Schedule, and Benefits Base salary range: $125,000 - $155,000 annualHybrid work schedule negotiable, but no fewer than 20 hours per week on siteFull medical and dental insurance coverageSignificant equity stake in our rapidly growing companyA typical day might include the following: Serving as the technical lead for the electrical design, integration, and testing of the flatsat OTV, ensuring all subsystems function cohesively in a simulated orbital environmentDesigning and implementing electrical architectures for GNC, communications, power systems, and OTV-specific equipment (e.g., proximity sensors, refueling systems, and propulsion interfaces)Leading a small team of engineers and technicians to assemble and troubleshoot the flatsat hardware and software integrationDeveloping and executing test plans to validate flatsat performance under simulated orbital conditions, including data generation and real-time operationsCollaborating with the mechanical engineering team to incorporate nuclear thermal rocket propulsion characteristics into the flatsat design and simulationsPerforming trade studies and risk analyses to optimize electrical system designs for reliability, performance, and compatibility with the OTV missionProducing detailed schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation for the flatsat and its subsystemsSupporting the definition of OTV development roadmaps, balancing performance, cost, and schedule considerationsContributing to interdisciplinary efforts to assess impacts of flatsat testing on overall vehicle design and mission operationsThis job might be for you if you have these: B.S. in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent3+ years of experience in electrical system design, integration, or testing for satellites or spacecraftFamiliarity with satellite subsystems, including GNC, communications, power generation/storage, and command and data handlingExperience with hardware-in-the-loop (HITL) testing and simulation environmentsProficiency with electrical design tools (e.g., Altium, OrCAD, MATLAB/Simulink) and real-time embedded systemsAbility to lead small teams in fast-paced, technical development projectsAbility to travel Physically able to handle items weighing up to 25 lbs. (unassisted)Desire to thrive in a fast-paced, rapidly changing work environmentAvailability to work extended hours as neededIt would be impressive if you also have these: Experience with spacecraft proximity operations, docking systems, or in-space refueling technologiesKnowledge of nuclear thermal propulsion systems or their electrical interfacesFamiliarity with radiation-hardened electronics and their application in space environmentsExperience with programming languages such as Python, C/C++, or VHDL for embedded systemsPractical experience with rapid prototyping, PCB design, and assemblyM.S. in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalentExperience working with government contracts or aerospace regulatory standardsA passion to reshape the multi-billion-dollar space transportation ecosystemAbility to work as a member of a cross-functional teamAbility to add something unique and positive to our teamWake up every morning ready to make a differenceTo conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, the successful applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR, 22 CFR §120.15), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. You can learn more about ITAR and company compliance requirements at:
https://www.pmddtc.state.gov/ddtc_public/ddtc_public?id=ddtc_public_portal_itar_landing
Dark Fission Space Systems is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Each individual has the right to work in a professional environment that promotes equal employment opportunity and prohibits discriminatory practices, including harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.
Seniority levelMid-Senior level
Employment typeFull-time
Job functionEngineering and Information Technology
IndustriesAviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing
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