Test Engineer

IENAI SPACE is a fast-growing startup based in Madrid, developing an end-to-end ecosystem of in-space mobility products, including propulsion systems and engineering SaaS. We are an innovative company in the "New Space" sector, composed of a dynamic and multidisciplinary team of engineers, PhDs, and developers aiming to revolutionize space mobility and propulsion for small satellites. We recently kickstarted our commercial phase with our first product: 360 , a Mission and Space Mobility analysis SaaS.

Our mission is to build tailored, end-to-end space mobility products and services for the next generation of small satellites, empowering a sustainable new space economy. We believe this is possible because we rely on our values: Infinite Innovation, Extraterrestrial Excellence, Planetary Passion and Cosmic Collaboration.

How will you contribute to IENAI SPACE?

We're seeking a Test Engineer to be incorporated in the Qualification, Diagnostics and Testing team of our Electric Propulsion Department. You will be in charge of experimental activities, data processing, design and development of laboratory equipment and diagnostics, etc. You will be working intimately with other teams such as Microsystems Technology (MST) and Mechanical, Thermal, Fluidics Engineering (MTF) to help develop and qualify the first Spanish electric propulsion system.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Plan, execute, post-process and report tests with our electrospray thrusters, as well as other experimental activities.
• Design, procure and install diagnostics for electrospray thrusters, as well as other experimental setups.
• Develop firmware, and communication and control software for laboratory equipment.
• Develop models and scripts to post-process test data of electrospray thrusters and diagnostics.

What is your department like?

You will be part of our Qualification, Diagnostics and Testing (QDT) team, which is part of our Electric Propulsion department. The QDT team is in charge of planning, executing, post-processing and reporting all experimental activities for the development and qualification of our electrospray thrusters, both internal and for external projects and customers. This includes developing the hardware, software and methods required to do so: design and control of laboratory equipment and diagnostics, test and thruster preparation and operation procedures, models and techniques to post-process test data and analyse the behaviour of electrospray thrusters, etc. The QDT team is in constant collaboration with the other teams in the Electric Propulsion department, as the development of our electrospray propulsion systems is a multidisciplinary effort.

What will make you succeed?

We are looking for (must have):

• Preferred: Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Microfluidics or any other related engineering field.
• 1-4 years of hands-on experience in an engineering laboratory.
• Experience in Python programming, particularly in data processing with libraries such as numpy and scipy.
• Spoken and written professional proficiency in English.
• Motivated, organized, detail-oriented, HANDS-ON and proactive.

We also value (nice to have):

• Experience with vacuum facilities and laboratory instruments.
• Experience in CAD design, particularly with Autodesk Fusion 360.
• Experience in C++ firmware programming.
• Experience with GUI development, particularly in Python with PyQt5.
• Experience in a startup environment is a plus, with a capability to work in an agile and adaptable way.

What benefits do we offer at IENAI SPACE?

• A key role in a pioneering space startup, where you will directly impact the development of cutting-edge propulsion technology.
• A full-time contract of 40h per week.
• Flexible working hours, allowing you to manage your schedule for better work-life balance.
• Hybrid work model - work remotely up to 9 days per month.
• Extra holidays - in addition to 23 vacation days, enjoy 6 additional days off during the Christmas period (from 24 December to 2 January, both included).
• Private health insurance, fully covered by the company.
• Learning & Development - €1000 per year budget for training, courses, and professional growth.
• Autonomy and responsibility - your contributions will directly shape our technology and success.

What will your recruitment process be like?

Here is a quick overview of the recruitment process:

1. Application review: we carefully assess your CV and experience.
2. Culture and values interview: a chat with our People team to ensure we share the same mindset and values.
3. Technical interview: meet the engineering team and showcase your technical skills.
4. Sometimes the hiring process will require a technical exercise to assess how you could apply logic and structure to different scenarios.
5. Final interview with Founders: align expectations and discuss your potential impact at IENAI SPACE.

If everything you've read matches what you're looking for in your next adventure, don't hesitate to apply via LinkedIn.

We are looking forward to meeting you