Propulsion Development Technician

Blackshark; Greater London; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Greenjets is seeking a hands-on Propulsion Development Technician to join our UK-based team. You will assemble prototype propulsion systems, prepare tests, inspect components and identify faults with high precision throughout the development cycle.

Working closely with engineers, you will maintain accurate records and contribute to design and process improvements while handling tight tolerances and ensuring safety and quality in a fast-moving environment.

Qualifications

• Experience assembling, inspecting and rebuilding high-precision mechanical systems.
• Experience working with very fine tolerances, close fits and finely finished components.
• Background in gearboxes, race engines, aerospace engines or similar precision machinery.
• Strong fault-finding and problem-solving abilities.
• Confident in using precision measuring equipment and reading engineering drawings.
• Methodical, careful approach to assembly work.

Responsibilities

• Assemble and rebuild prototype propulsion systems and subassemblies.
• Inspect precision components before and after testing, identifying wear and issues.
• Prepare systems, test equipment and instrumentation for development testing.
• Support safe operation of test equipment and rigs.
• Tear down tested systems and record condition accurately.
• Diagnose mechanical faults and determine root causes.
• Collaborate with engineers to turn findings into design/process improvements.
• Measure components using inspection/metrology equipment.
• Maintain clear build, inspection and test records.
• Develop and improve assembly, inspection and maintenance procedures.

Skills

Precision assembly

Mechanical fault-finding

Metrology & measurement

Technical documentation

Team collaboration

Safety awareness

Education

Apprenticeship or technical training

Tools

Calipers

Micrometers

CMM (coordinate measuring machine)

Job description

About Us:

Greenjets is an innovative engineering company developing high-performance propulsion systems for the aviation market. Our work spans research and development, engine production, aircraft systems, technical integration and flight testing. We are committed to delivering high-grade engineering and best-in-class propulsion for unmanned aircraft.

We do things differently. We move fast, we experiment and we adopt technologies that push beyond the current state of the art. Our aim is to go further, faster and more efficiently, while keeping costs competitive.

All our propulsion systems are designed, developed and manufactured in the UK. We focus on high-quality, reliable and cost-effective products supported by a robust, secure and ethical supply chain.

About the Job:

We are looking for a hands-on Propulsion Development Technician to help build and develop a novel, high-performance propulsion system.

You will work closely with our engineers throughout the complete development cycle: assembling prototype systems, preparing and carrying out tests, inspecting components, identifying faults, tearing systems down and rebuilding them ready for further development.

This is a practical and varied role where precision, curiosity and sound mechanical judgement matter. You will be working with finely engineered components and extremely tight tolerances, so attention to detail and a methodical approach are essential.

You do not need previous aviation experience. We are particularly interested in people whose skills come from other demanding engineering environments, such as race engines, aerospace or precision gearbox development.

What You'll Do:

• Assemble and rebuild prototype propulsion systems and subassemblies.
• Inspect precision components before and after testing, identifying wear, damage and manufacturing issues.
• Prepare systems, test equipment and instrumentation for development testing.
• Support the safe operation of test equipment and development rigs.
• Tear down tested systems and record their condition accurately.
• Diagnose mechanical faults and help determine their root causes.
• Work closely with engineers to turn test findings into practical design and process improvements.
• Measure components accurately using appropriate inspection and metrology equipment.
• Maintain clear build, inspection and test records.
• Develop and improve assembly, inspection and maintenance procedures.
• Ensure components, tools and work areas are kept clean, organised and controlled.
• Follow all relevant quality, safety and engineering processes.
• Contribute ideas and practical insight in a fast-moving development environment.

Desirable Qualifications, Experience & Attributes:

We are interested in practical ability and relevant experience, not just formal qualifications. You may have developed your skills through an apprenticeship, technical training, motorsport, specialist engineering or another hands-on route.

You will ideally bring:

• Experience assembling, inspecting and rebuilding high-precision mechanical systems.
• Experience working with very fine tolerances, close fits and finely finished components.
• A background involving gearboxes, race engines, aerospace engines or comparable precision machinery.
• Strong mechanical fault-finding and problem-solving skills.
• Confidence using precision measuring equipment and interpreting engineering drawings.
• A careful, clean and methodical approach to assembly work.
• The ability to recognise small changes in component condition, fit or system behaviour.
• Good written and verbal communication, including accurate technical record-keeping.
• A collaborative mindset and willingness to share observations and ideas.
• The flexibility to work with evolving designs, processes and test requirements.
• A strong commitment to safety, quality and doing the job properly.

Experience with development testing, prototype builds, rotating machinery, high-temperature systems, test instrumentation or formal inspection processes would be useful, but it is not essential.

Above all, we are looking for someone who enjoys understanding how complex mechanical systems work and who takes pride in assembling, testing and improving them.