We are hiring for a company which is a pioneering space technology company specializing in advanced propulsion systems for small satellites. They are global experts in satellite propulsion, pushing the boundaries of streamlined in-orbit mobility for the rapidly expanding satellite constellation industry. Their clients across the US, Europe, and Asia trust us to design and deliver high-performance, precision-engineered propulsion systems that push technological boundaries while meeting demanding timelines and budgets. They made history in 2019 and 2020 with the world’s first in-orbit demonstrations of a unique state-of-the-art fueled electric propulsion systems. Today, they are experiencing rapid growth, with over 300 systems ordered to date.
We are looking for a Head of Research & Development (M/F) leading the Innovation team and being responsible for conception of new company products in the domain of space propulsion and plasma physics. We expect you to combine solid tech knowledge with out-of-the-box thinking and bring us future products disrupting the entire market. It’s you to tell us possible directions and lighten the path – and we will bring the resources for making it happen. Your team will work on multiple technologies and their proofs in parallel, bringing proof-of-concept prototypes to the product development team. You will directly interact with business development unit for having the most updated picture of the industry landscape.
Are you passionate about technology? Do you know how most things are built, from a printer to a space probe? Are you ready to take the risk of making the unthinkable? You are not scared of being the best? Do you know how to manage small diverse team? If all the answers are yes, then we are looking for you!
Main tasks and responsibilities:
- Managing the Innovation team
- Being responsible for the research and development activities
- Developing new concepts to be used in future and existing products, and validating them experimentally
- Continuous technology transfer to the product development team
- Handling most of the experimental activities in the company
- Creating and protecting company IP
- Keeping the company heritage regarding core technologies
- Interacting with other tech units (development, support and production) and business development unit
Required skills and qualifications:
- Solid track record of r&d in the applied physics, plasma physics or propulsion domains
- Strong leadership skills, ability to setup team-work and efficient brainstorming
- Basic understanding of agile management
- PhD in applied physics, plasma physics is good to have. Master’s degree can be considered
- Solid understanding of complex systems, with good knowledge of engineering and space propulsion subjects
- Expertise in plasma physics
- Good understanding of both power and signal electronics
- Prototyping skills
- Ability to motivate, work autonomously and proactively
- Technical writing and reporting skills
- Soft skills: conflict management, being passionate
