Lead Stress Engineer

TN United Kingdom; Forres; On-site; GBP 48,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative company in the aerospace sector is looking for a Lead Stress Engineer to join their dynamic flight structures team. This role offers the opportunity to provide technical leadership in structural analysis and failure mode analysis, contributing to the development of cutting-edge launch vehicles. The ideal candidate will work closely with design teams, ensuring the highest standards of engineering excellence. With a commitment to sustainability and advanced technology, this position not only promises a rewarding career but also the chance to make a significant impact in the space industry. If you're passionate about aerospace and eager to take on new challenges, this role is perfect for you.

Benefits

34 days paid holiday

Pension scheme

Cycle scheme

Employee assistance program

Life insurance

Relocation support

Visa sponsorship

Qualifications

• Experience in analyzing high-performance structural parts in aerospace.
• Proficient in FEA and CAD for structural analysis preparation.

Responsibilities

• Perform and validate structural analyses for composite and metallic components.
• Collaborate with design teams for optimization and testing support.

Skills

Structural Analysis

Failure Mode Analysis

Teamwork

Communication Skills

Static Testing

Education

Degree in Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

FEA Packages (FEMAP, Nastran, Hypermesh, Optistruct)

CAD Software

Job description

Orbex is seeking a Lead Stress Engineer to join our flight structures team for the development of Orbex Prime.

This role involves providing technical leadership in structural analysis, failure mode analysis, and supporting testing activities.

About Orbex

Orbex is a leading micro-launch company developing Prime and Proxima launch vehicles, with launches planned from Scotland. We have secured over £133m in project financing, signed multiple customers, submitted a launch license application, and received backing from UKSA and ESA.

Our team is based in Forres, Scotland, and Copenhagen, Denmark. We work on innovative rocket fuel technology, achieving up to 96% lower carbon footprint compared to similar vehicles. Our state-of-the-art systems enable reusability and leave no debris on orbit.

Company Capabilities

• In-house production including 3D printing of complex engines and full-scale carbon composite fuel tanks.
• Testing labs in Scotland and Denmark.

Position Responsibilities

• Perform and validate structural analyses using hand calculations and FEA for composite and metallic components.
• Collaborate with the design team for concept iteration and optimization.
• Develop analysis and test plans from high-level requirements.
• Support hardware development and testing as needed.

Qualifications and Experience

• Degree in Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• Industry experience in analyzing high-performance structural parts, especially in aerospace, space, defense, or motorsport.
• Proficiency in FEA packages (e.g., FEMAP, Nastran, Hypermesh, Optistruct).
• Experience with CAD for analysis preparation.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Experience with static testing and failure mode analysis.

Desirable Skills

• Experience with composite structural analysis, mechanical and bonded joints.
• Knowledge of various vibration and thermo-elastic analysis methodologies.
• Experience with COPVs or composite pressure structures.
• Familiarity with industry standards like MIL-HDBK-5/17, ECSS-E-HB-32, NASA-STD-5001.

Location and Additional Information

This role is based on-site in Forres, Scotland, near Inverness, offering access to natural landscapes and outdoor activities.

Applicants must be UK or European citizens or from countries signatory to the MTCR. A UK BPSS check may be required.

Benefits

• Salary between £48k-£65k depending on experience.
• 34 days paid holiday including bank and public holidays.
• Additional benefits: pension, cycle scheme, employee assistance, life insurance, relocation support, and visa sponsorship.