About NewOrbit Space

At NewOrbit Space, our mission it to engineer the lowest orbiting satellites on Earth to rapidly advance global connectivity and insight.

We are currently building satellites that can breathe air and operate at an altitude of just 200 km - one-third that of conventional satellites. Thanks to our proprietary propulsion system we can compensate for the atmospheric drag at ultra low altitudes using the air as propellant.

Please note that as we prepare for our maiden satellite mission, we are in a critical growth phase. Our roles will often require extended hours and are not typical 9-to-6 positions.

Your Role

You will be responsible for developing the control systems of various satellite subsystems.

Please note that as we prepare for our maiden satellite mission, we are in a critical growth phase. This role will often require extended hours and is not a typical 9-to-5 position.

Key responsibilities

We realize this is a broad set of responsibilities, and we're looking for candidates who excel in at least 3 or more of the areas

• Control System Development: Design, simulate and test control systems to ensure stable and reliable operation in space environments.
• System Integration and Testing: Integrate control systems with propulsion and other subsystems, performing rigorous testing under simulated space conditions (thermal vacuum, vibration, and radiation).
• Autonomous Fault Management: Develop fault detection and correction strategies to enhance satellite resilience and autonomous operations.
• Iterative Development: Work in a fast-paced, highly collaborative environment to produce and refine rapid design iterations.
• Modelling and Analysis: Use MATLAB/Simulink and other tools to model complex systems, analyze performance, and validate control algorithms.
• Circuit and Firmware Development: Collaborate with electronics engineers to design circuits and implement control algorithms for microcontroller-based systems, ensuring space-grade reliability.
• Code Generation: Create isolated MATLAB/Simulink control modules for embedded system deployment. This includes separating control logic from simulation code and defining clear interfaces with consideration for microcontroller resource constraints.

Requirements

• MEng, MSc, or PhD in Electronics, Mechatronics, Automation, Control Systems, Robotics, Aerospace, Mechanical, or a related discipline.
• Strong understanding and hands-on experience with control design, tuning, and implementation.
• Familiarity with power electronics and electrical power converters, with experience in PPU systems highly desirable.
• Proficiency in MATLAB/Simulink for control system design and analysis.
• Embedded Systems: Experience developing firmware for microcontroller-based systems.

Why join us

• Pioneering Space Technology – You'll contribute to launching groundbreaking technology into space. Your work on our revolutionary air-breathing ion propulsion system will redefine satellite operations in ultra-low Earth orbits.
• Unmatched Ownership and Impact –You'll experience a level of ownership that's rare in the space industry. You will participate in the full lifecycle of satellite technology.
• Equity and Competitive Salary – You'll receive not just a competitive salary but also company ownership stakes. Your dedication and hard work are rewarded with a share in the technology you help build, ensuring you're a part of our collective success.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package – Including private health insurance with dental and optical coverage, annual healthcare check-ups etc.

Note: This is an on-site, five-days-a-week role based in Reading (20 minutes from London). We provide a financial relocation package, and also sponsor your visa if you're based abroad.