Software Test Automation Engineer

Orbit Fab's mission is to create the foundational infrastructure that will fuel a bustling in-space economy, capable of sustaining permanent jobs in space.

Today, satellites cannot be refueled, which severely constrains their mobility and inhibits the development of economic activities in space.

Orbit Fab breaks the single-use paradigm, pioneering our Gas Stations in Space refueling infrastructure and RAFTI technology to deliver propellant in space, enabling lower-cost satellite construction, increased maneuverability, precise control, and extended lifespans. The possibilities are unprecedented, opening the doors to unimagined operational strategies and business models.

Since our establishment in 2018, we have already achieved the successful launch of three tankers to space. With offices in both the US and UK, we are working in close collaboration with partners and customers across the space industry. Orbit Fab is rapidly ramping up capabilities and requires exceptional talent to tackle important challenges. Our roles offer wide ranging opportunities to have a demonstrable impact and enable a bustling in space economy.

As a Test Software Engineer, you will use your mastery of bits and bytes to support the Test team in design, analysis, assembly, testing, and prototyping of flight hardware for spacecraft and/or mechanisms.  Working within the test engineering group, you'll be tasked with developing code to: enable automated testing of flight hardware, run environmental chambers, run fluid test stands and other Ground Support Equipment (GSE), and support verification and validation of our flight software.  This position will allow you to work independently and exercise your judgment, as well as be part of a cross-specialty team to solve the engineering challenges that accompany hardware in space.

Responsibilities

• Develop code in C++, Python and other object-oriented languages to test and operate flight hardware, analyze data, and run test GSE.

• Develop Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) utilizing automation programs (Dewesoft, LabVIEW) to automate test hardware and operations processes

• Take ownership for developing and maintaining the test software architecture for the Test team.

• Work closely with our software engineering team to identify, document, and troubleshoot software issues in the development, integration, and test cycles.

• Perform standard operating procedures, execute tests and document test results, including functional testing, life testing, shock, vibration, Thermal Vacuum (TVAC)/Thermal, and launch integration

• Analyze and characterize test data to formulate general failure modes and categorization of pass/fail criteria

• Work with engineers across disciplines to troubleshoot and solve technical issues

• Be willing to cross-train in multiple specialty areas and mentor and learn from other engineers

• Provide input for continuous process improvement, develop more refined ways of manufacturing, assembly, integration and test of assembly parts and components

Role Requirements

• BS degree with a preference towards computer science, software engineering or other technical field. 2+ years working on projects requiring automation or object-oriented coding. If you majored in another area but developed a love of coding and automation, don't hesitate to apply.

• Proficient with C++, Python or other object orienting coding.

• Experience with best software management practices using GITHUB (preferred) or SVN.

• Experience developing software to automate and run processes and creating interactive GUIs with test process software such as Dewesoft or LabVIEW.

• Ability to read, interpret, execute and develop code to run test instructions with respect to requirements

• Possess strong problem solving and communication abilities

• Proficiency with PCs (Windows and Linux) and experience with serial interfacing and communication of hardware.

• Collaborative and team-focused

• Excellent communication, analytical, organizational, strategic, problem solving, and statistical skills

• An effective sense of urgency and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, small company environment

Nice to haves

• Experience testing aerospace-qualified hardware through qualification and acceptance test environments, including operation of TVAC and thermal chambers. If your experience lies with other technical hardware don't hesitate to apply and tell us what you've done

• Experience analyzing test data with MATLAB or other software.

• Able to read schematics and use comment electronic test equipment (multimeter, oscilloscope, current meter, signal generator etc.)

• Experience working as a team to build and deliver a project for operation be it into space, for a robotics competition or for commercial sale.

• Experience with HILand/or PIL testing

• Experience analyzing datasets and generating informational plots and tables to communicate results clearly to technical and non-technical team members.

Research shows that while men apply to jobs where they meet an average of 60% of the criteria, women and other marginalized people tend to only apply when they meet 100% of the qualifications. At Orbit Fab, we value respectful debate and people who aren't afraid to challenge assumptions. We strongly encourage you to apply if you feel you would succeed in the role above.

Location and Benefits

Orbit Fab is based out of Lafayette, Colorado and all roles are based in Colorado. We offer fully covered benefits, discretionary time off, and flexible work hours.

Eligibility

Some job roles may be limited to US Persons (22 CFR 120.62 "U.S. person").

Orbit Fab Inc does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor.