Propulsion Systems Engineer

Bluestream People; South Oxfordshire; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A pioneering space technology company in South Oxfordshire is looking for a Propulsion Systems Engineer to lead projects in developing advanced propulsion systems. The role includes full lifecycle systems engineering, managing requirements, and coordinating with teams. Strong experience in the space sector and knowledge of propulsion subsystems is essential. Attractive compensation includes a competitive salary and a performance-based bonus.

Benefits

Competitive base salary

Annual performance-based bonus

Pension scheme with up to 7.5% matching contributions

25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays

Various benefits

Qualifications

• Commercial experience in the space sector is essential.
• Knowledge of propulsion subsystems such as tanks and thrusters is required.
• Strong systems engineering skills needed for trade-offs and requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead full lifecycle systems engineering for propulsion subsystems.
• Define and manage system requirements and DVV plans.
• Coordinate with subsystem teams for AIT activities.

Skills

Strong commercial experience in the space sector

Deep knowledge of propulsion subsystems

Strong systems engineering skills

Familiarity with ECSS and QA

Excellent communication skills

Experience with ANSYS or Nastran

Tools

ANSYS

Nastran

ESATAN

Job description

Propulsion Systems Engineer needed to join a pioneering space technology company developing cutting-edge propulsion systems for future in-orbit servicing and manufacturing missions. You’ll lead projects from concept to qualification, working in a fast-moving, multi-disciplinary environment alongside experts in propulsion, GNC, and computer vision.

Responsibilities:

• Lead full lifecycle systems engineering for propulsion subsystems
• Define and manage system requirements, DVV plans, and risk assessments
• Coordinate with subsystem teams and support AIT activities
• Apply ECSS standards and QA processes across TRL 2–9
• Produce system documentation: CONOPS, test plans, verification matrices

Experience:

• Strong commercial experience in the space sector
• Deep knowledge of propulsion subsystems (tanks, valves, pipework, thrusters)
• Strong systems engineering skills (trade-offs, requirements, verification)
• Familiarity with ECSS, QA, and satellite AIT
• Excellent communication and documentation skills
• Experience with tools like ANSYS, Nastran, or ESATAN is a plus
• Knowledge of thermal modelling, structural analysis, and environmental testing

What we offer:

• Competitive base salary.
• Annual performance-based bonus.
• Pension scheme with up to 7.5% matching contributions.
• 25 days of annual leave, plus bank holidays.
• Various benefits

Bluestream People are an Equal Opportunities Employer and operates as an Employment Agency for permanent recruitment and an as an Employment Business for temporary / contract recruitment.