Senior Electrical Engineer

Phase Four is developing the next generation of in-space propulsion for the rapidly expanding space economy. From large constellations in low earth orbit to new missions and cutting-edge capabilities, our team is the key to mission success. We are an innovative team that’s focused, passionate, and excited about space.

Join us at Phase Four as we design, build and deliver the next generation of in-space propulsion and change the way humanity moves in space.

Job Summary:

As Propulsion Engineer, Analysis, you will apply your diverse skillset, experience and creativity to advance Phase Four’s mission, while using Experimental and computational plasma physics research and development activities on RF plasma heating and electric propulsion. This role requires candidate to be on-site at our Hawthorne, CA, location.

Core Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations to model electric propulsion systems.
• Conduct research on plasma physics and its applications to spacecraft propulsion.
• Analyze simulation results and experimental data to improve the accuracy and efficiency of propulsion models.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists to integrate modeling efforts with hardware development.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in plasma physics and electric propulsion technologies.
• Conduct experimental and computational plasma physics research and development activities on RF plasma heating and electric propulsion.
• Document findings and present results to internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Contribute to the design and optimization of electric propulsion systems for various spacecraft missions.
• Related duties as assigned by management.

Minimum Qualifications / Skills:

• Master’s degree or Ph.D in Plasma Physics, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong background in plasma physics and experience with particle-in-cell (PIC) simulation methods.
• Experience with high-performance computing and simulation software.
• Knowledge of electric propulsion systems, such as ion thrusters or Hall effect thrusters, is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Preferred Qualifications / Skills:

• PhD in plasma physics or related field; Experience conducting research in advanced plasma physics topics
• Published work in low pressure RF plasmas (capacitively coupled, inductively coupled, microwave or helicon systems)
• Developed knowledge of electric propulsion
• Demonstrated wide breadth of research activities in plasma physics
• Strong background in plasma physics and experience with particle-in-cell (PIC) simulation methods.
• Experience working with DoD, IC, and/or NASA
• Active TS/SCI clearance

Salary Range

• $115,000.00-130,000.00 Annually

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and equity commensurate with the Los Angeles Aerospace industry.
• Comprehensive health benefits (Medical, Dental, and Vision) with company contributions for both employees and dependents.
• 401k with company matching incentive, eligible after your first 90 days of employment.
• ~10 paid holidays annually + winter company paid shutdown.
• Robust PTO and sick accrual policy.
• More details on our policies can be found here: https://px.sequoia.com/phasefour

Our Interview Process:

We understand that interviewing is an art that takes time on both sides of the spectrum. Phase Four's interview process is as follows:

1. Phone Interview with our Recruiting Team - 15-30 minutes - Where we learn about you, your experience, and what you're looking for in a new role, as well as give you a chance to learn about us, the role, and any questions you may have. If progressing to next step;
2. Video Interview with the Hiring Manager - 30 minutes - This interview reviews the technical aspects of the role as well as your technical background. This is a great time for both you and the hiring manager to get more in depth about the expectations and technical mindset needed for the role. If progressing to next step;
3. 'Challenge Question' + In-Person Interview - 90-120 minutes - You will be given a technical question to work through that relates to the role to present during the In-Person interview at our office. Also during this time, you'll get to meet our team, tour our facility, and see what we do at Phase Four! If progressing to next step;
4. Offer Stage!

Notes:

• To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
• Phase Four is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.'