Head of Planetary Science
AstroForge
Seal Beach, CA, USA
Posted on Dec 24, 2024
Head of Planetary Science
Seal Beach
In office
Full-time
About AstroForge
At AstroForge, our mission is to make space resources accessible on Earth. We mine asteroids to extract valuable minerals in space at a lower cost and with a smaller carbon footprint than current terrestrial mining methods. We offer a unique opportunity to join an exciting team looking to expand humanity’s capabilities in space.
Position Summary
AstroForge is seeking an experienced Head of Planetary Science to lead efforts in identifying, analyzing, and characterizing M-type asteroids for our mining missions. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of planetary science, asteroid geology, and space mission planning, with a proven track record of leading complex scientific initiatives. This role will be pivotal in determining viable M-type asteroids, analyzing composition data, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize mission outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
- Asteroid Identification: Lead the search for target M-type asteroids, utilizing observational data, spectral analysis, and modeling to identify promising candidates.
- Data Analysis and Interpretation: Use ground-based telescopes, satellite data, and spectroscopy to analyze asteroid composition, surface properties, and rotation patterns, ensuring alignment with AstroForge’s mission objectives.
- Research and Development: Collaborate with engineering and mission planning teams to develop technologies and strategies for assessing asteroid feasibility, extraction potential, and mission design.
- Scientific Leadership: Guide the scientific direction of the science team, setting research goals and fostering a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and precision.
- Collaborative Partnerships: Build and maintain relationships with academic institutions, research labs, and space agencies to stay at the forefront of planetary science advancements and leverage external expertise.
- Mission Preparation and Support: Provide scientific support for mission design, including input on payload requirements, data collection needs, and expected mission outcomes.
Qualifications
- Education: Ph.D. in Planetary Science, Astronomy, Geology, or a related field.
- Experience: Minimum of 6 years of experience in planetary science, with a focus on asteroid geology, mineralogy, or related areas. Experience with space mission planning and/or working with ground-based telescopes or satellite data systems for NEO observation.
- Technical Expertise: Proficiency in spectroscopy, remote sensing, and data interpretation techniques relevant to asteroid analysis. Familiarity with orbital mechanics and asteroid dynamics.
- Project Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead cross-disciplinary projects, set scientific objectives, and manage research teams.
- Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience presenting complex scientific data to diverse audiences.
Why Join Us?
At AstroForge, you’ll be at the forefront of space exploration and resource acquisition, working on challenges that have never been tackled before. You’ll have the opportunity to shape the future of asteroid mining and contribute to a revolutionary industry with immense scientific, economic, and environmental potential.
Salary
150k - 225k
Benefits
- Full healthcare benefits
- Life insurance coverage
- Retirement savings plan – 401(k), with company match
- Stock options in AstroForge
ITAR Requirements
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S.,protected individual as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15) or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Req ID: R39