Mass-manufacturing productized satellite platforms to accelerate deployment of critical, next-generation constellations. Backed by a16z and CRV.
About the role
Apex is seeking a Staff Electric Propulsion Engineer with deep expertise in cathodes to own the design, development, qualification, and production of the cathode technology at the heart of our electric propulsion systems. Building on Apex's in-house Hall-effect thruster capability, you will be the technical authority on hollow and heaterless cathode design, from emitter physics and thermal-mechanical design through cathode-thruster coupling, life characterization, and design-for-manufacturing at rate.
What they're looking for
- Bachelor's degree in aerospace, mechanical, electrical, plasma/propulsion engineering, applied physics, or a related field
- Deep, hands-on knowledge of hollow and/or heaterless cathode physics, including thermionic emission, emitter materials, plasma discharge behavior, keeper/orifice design, and cathode coupling to Hall or ion thrusters
- Experience planning and executing cathode or EP test campaigns in vacuum facilities, including plasma diagnostics, performance measurement, and long-duration life/wear testing
- Strong understanding of the failure and degradation mechanisms that drive cathode life, including emitter depletion, erosion, poisoning, and contamination, and how to design and test against them
- Working knowledge of spacecraft propulsion system architecture, propellant feed systems, and range safety requirements (e.g., SSCMAN 91-710)
- Ability to decompose requirements and ICDs and communicate clearly across engineering disciplines
More about this role
Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.
For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.
Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.
We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.
Apex is seeking a Staff Electric Propulsion Engineer with deep expertise in cathodes to own the design, development, qualification, and production of the cathode technology at the heart of our electric propulsion systems. Building on Apex's in-house Hall-effect thruster capability, you will be the technical authority on hollow...
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