Graduate Space Fluid Systems Engineer – In-Orbit Refuelling

Orbit Fab; Harwell; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

Orbit Fab, based at Harwell Campus in the UK, invites applications for a Graduate Fluid Systems Engineer. You will learn the development of fluid systems and propulsion hardware, contributing to in-orbit refuelling technologies and system architecture from concept to testing.

A strong candidate has a foundation in engineering principles and a practical, hands-on approach, with curiosity and willingness to take ownership of defined tasks while growing into broader responsibilities.

Qualifications

• A degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, chemical engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• Strong understanding of fundamentals in fluid systems, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer or propulsion.
• Demonstrated interest in space systems, fluid systems or propulsion through academic or project work.
• Experience applying engineering principles to practical problems through university projects or internships.
• Ability to analyse technical problems, develop logical solutions, and clearly communicate assumptions and conclusions.
• Strong interest in practical engineering and willingness to work directly with hardware in development/testing environments.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary engineering team.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Proactive, curious approach to learning and ability to seek guidance when required and progressively work independently.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritise effectively, and deliver on timescales.

Responsibilities

• Support the development of fluid system architectures for in-orbit refuelling missions.
• Perform engineering analysis and modelling to support fluid system and component design.
• Support development of fluid system and component designs from concept through prototyping and testing.
• Develop engineering calculations, models, and technical documentation under guidance of experienced engineers.
• Support the definition and maintenance of system and subsystem requirements and verification plans.
• Support engineering trade studies and technical decision-making through analysis of design options.
• Plan, prepare, execute, and analyse component and subsystem test campaigns.
• Take an active, hands-on role in build, integration, and testing of development hardware.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Hands-on engineering

Multidisciplinary teamwork

Written and verbal communication

Proactive and curious learning

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace or chemical engineering

Tools

Python

MATLAB/Simulink

EcosimPro

Thermal Desktop

Modelica

Job description

Orbit Fab, based at Harwell Campus in the UK, invites applications for a Graduate Fluid Systems Engineer. You will learn the development of fluid systems and propulsion hardware, contributing to in-orbit refuelling technologies and system architecture from concept to testing.

A strong candidate has a foundation in engineering principles and a practical, hands-on approach, with curiosity and willingness to take ownership of defined tasks while growing into broader responsibilities.