Job Description
Job Description
Plasma Scientist – Build Next-Generation Propulsion Systems from the Ground Up!
El Segundo, CA | Onsite
Opportunity Summary
Join a pre-seed stage startup that is pushing the boundaries of propulsion technology for next-generation spacecraft. With active government contracts and strategic partnerships already in place, this team is building cutting-edge RF-based plasma propulsion systems that will redefine the future of in-space mobility. As one of the earliest scientific hires, you will work directly with the CEO and CTO to take ownership of experimental plasma development and hardware validation from day one. This role is ideal for a highly motivated plasma physicist who thrives in a hands-on lab environment, designing and testing hardware from scratch while shaping the trajectory of a groundbreaking propulsion technology.
About Us
We are an early-stage, venture-backed startup developing advanced plasma-based propulsion systems for defense and commercial space applications. Our mission is to unlock higher-efficiency, scalable propulsion solutions. With a lean, world-class founding team and a strong base of government support, we are well-positioned to advance from concept to flight-ready hardware rapidly.
Job Duties
- Design, build, and test experimental RF-based plasma hardware and diagnostics.
- Lead hypothesis-driven experiments to validate key aspects of propulsion system performance.
- Develop and implement plasma diagnostics (probe design, spectroscopy, RF coupling techniques).
- Source, integrate, and evaluate COTS (commercial off-the-shelf) electronics and subsystems.
- Collaborate closely with the CEO and CTO to define technical milestones and deliverables under government contracts.
- Document test results, author reports, and present findings to both internal leadership and external stakeholders.
- Contribute to early-stage design of flight-ready hardware, including vacuum facility integration and testing.
Qualifications
- PhD in Plasma Physics, Aerospace Engineering, or related field (Master’s with significant experimental experience will also be considered).
- Hands-on experience in experimental plasma research, particularly in RF-based plasma systems.
- Demonstrated ability to design, execute, and analyze plasma experiments in a lab environment.
- Knowledge of plasmadynamics, electric propulsion, and plasma-material interactions.
- Strong foundation in basic electronics design and hardware troubleshooting.
- Proven self-starter with the ability to work independently in a fast-paced, resource-limited startup environment.
Preferred Experience
- Research or lab background aligned with leading plasma propulsion programs (e.g., University of Michigan PEPL, Georgia Tech HPEPL, University of Washington, Princeton University, Michigan Tech).
- Experience with RF plasma source design, matching networks, and power electronics integration.
- Familiarity with spacecraft propulsion requirements, vacuum facility operations, and electric thruster diagnostics.
- Record of peer-reviewed publications in plasma science or propulsion.
- Prior exposure to government-funded R&D projects or DoD/space agency collaborations.
Why Join Us
- Be one of the first scientific hires at a startup with significant government traction and a clear path to flight demonstrations.
- Work side by side with the CEO and CTO, directly influencing technical direction and company strategy.
- Directly shape the design and performance of hardware that could set the standard for next-generation spacecraft propulsion.
- Work alongside a leadership team with deep aerospace and defense experience.
- Enjoy the autonomy of a self-directed, lab-driven role with the backing of well-resourced government programs.
Compensation
$90,000 - $130,000
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