Why Gravitilab?

• Work on a unique project:
• One of the only launch vehicle manufacturers in the UK with a hybrid rocket engine test stand on-site where we perform test firings for research, development, and verification purposes.
• Work alongside a highly passionate and energetic team.
• Unique opportunities to progress and expand responsibilities within the company.
• Open-plan work environment that encourages trans-disciplinary collaboration with technical experts in different fields.
• Be part of a fast-paced start-up where

Role description 

• Leading avionics development for ISAAC launch vehicle.
• Component selection with a focus on high availability design.
• Providing evidence for make/buy decisions.
• Ensuring compliance with ECSS guidelines and other relevant standards where applicable (Mil-Std, IRIG, ARINC).
• Working with the team to define flight operations and refine operational safety case.
• Work very closely with other subsystems engineers to develop the launch vehicle.
• Be a pathfinder for Avionics suppliers.
• Be involved (from a technical point of view) with procurement discussions and quotations from suppliers.

Required skills, qualifications, and experience

Skills

• Knowledge of the space environment and its effects on electrical systems.
• Knowledge and experience using applicable avionics standards such as ARINC 600, Mil-std is desirable.
• As avionics subsystems comprise several diverse components, knowledge of as many of the following is preferred but not essential:
  • Electrical systems and principles – power distribution, sources of electrical noise
  • Electromechanical actuators – mainly DC motors and motor controllers
  • Thermal conditioning – basic understanding of thermal conditioning methods and principles
  • Radio Frequency (RF) principles – able to produce link budgets and understanding basic RF principles such as gain and loss. An understanding of more advanced principles such as modulation, multiplexing and error correction would be ideal
  • Communication protocols – Awareness of common communication protocols I2C, RS-422, CAN, Ethernet and SpaceWire
• Knowledge of ECSS guidelines for developing space hardware is desirable.
• Ideally ability to program in C or similar programming language experience
• Ideally ability to use CAD tools such as SOLIDWORKS or similar
• Enthusiastic about learning new concepts. A fast learner.
• Able to multitask and prioritise tasks.
• Able to communicate complex technical information, problems and solutions clearly and concisely to members outside your area of technical expertise.
• Deep technical knowledge of avionics systems, standards and use within the aerospace field is highly desirable.
• Ability to perform trade-offs based on quantitative data to inform technical and investment decisions.
• Ability to think critically to ensure that design assumptions made are accurate.
• Attention to detail.
• Strong time-management and organisation skills.

Experience

• Experience in aerospace and/or working on avionics systems. 2+ years or more preferred but not essential if the skills, experience and qualifications are met.
• Proven experience in leading a team to deliver a technical design, development, or deliverable.
• Demonstrated ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, while collaborating with and influencing others to achieve strategic goals.
• Experience with risk analysis and failure mode analyses such as FMEA/FMECA.
• Experience in the space sector or developing space hardware is highly desirable.

Qualifications

Engineering or Aerospace degree preferred, but not essential.

Salary

Subject to experience

Person Values

Down to earth – we are looking for someone who is approachable and practical. You’ll be happy to roll your sleeves up as required and willing to lead others.

Stimulating – you are happy to challenge and debate – to push the organisations and partners you work with to find solutions and make change.

Curious – you might be fascinated by space, science or engineering. You will always have an appetite to know and discover more.

Progressive – you’ll be willing to find solutions that may not have been thought of before and be willing to try new things

Gravitas – your decisions are based on strong foundations of experience and knowledge, you will be respected by your peers and valued for your opinions