Overview
At Orbital Paradigm, we develop autonomous reentry capsules for routine, fast-return transport from orbit, supporting in-space manufacturing, science, and logistics.
We’re seeking a Junior Materials Engineer to help develop our thermal protection material, a key technology for our vehicles. You’ll work from lab-scale development to system integration, collaborating with engineering teams to deliver solutions.
This hands-on role focuses on lab work, material analysis, and process development, ideal for someone with a background in materials, chemistry, or physics who enjoys experimentation and wants to grow in a high-impact space project.
Responsibilities
Lead laboratory work for material processing and development.
Define and maintain lab protocols and workflows.
Explore and optimize processing techniques for ceramic / glass-based materials.
Analyze and interpret material behavior throughout the development stages.
Support material characterization and performance validation.
Contribute to production scale-up and integration into the final system.
Document results and communicate findings to the team.
Collaborate with internal and external partners across different disciplines.
Qualifications
Master’s degree in Engineering (Materials, Chemical), or Science (Chemistry, Physics) with a focus on materials.
Hands-on experience or academic training in ceramic and / or glass material design (e.g., suspension / slurry formation, powder / fiber processing, casting, sintering...)
Familiarity with chemical and / or material characterization techniques (IPC, DLS, spectroscopies, XRD, SEM, DSC, TGA...).
Strong laboratory skills and experimental mindset.
Critical thinking, autonomy, and attention to detail.
Fluent in English.
Ideal experience
Familiarity with ceramic casting and powder / fiber processing techniques
Knowledge of glass formulation or synthesis
Up to 2 years in a similar role or research project
Mechanical or thermal characterization of material properties
Experience in space-related materials or thermal protection systems
What We Offer
Location : Madrid, Spain
Remote : Hybrid (+ 2 fully remote weeks / year)
Be part of a fast-growing space startup with real responsibilities.
30 vacation days (23 flexible, +7 during holidays).
Company shares plan
Opportunities to grow with the company.
Possibility to pursue an industrial PhD.
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