Satellite Mechanical Engineer

NewOrbit Space; Reading; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative firm is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to lead the design of cutting-edge air-breathing satellites. This role offers the chance to work on groundbreaking technology that will redefine satellite operations in ultra-low Earth orbits. You will take ownership of the design process, ensuring the success of upcoming missions while collaborating with a dynamic team. With a focus on high-performance hardware and rapid prototyping, this position promises unmatched ownership and impact in the space industry. Join us and be part of a journey that shapes the future of global connectivity.

Benefits

Private health insurance

Dental coverage

Optical coverage

Annual healthcare check-ups

Financial relocation package

Visa sponsorship

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in mechanical design and analysis.
• Strong understanding of building complex systems.

Responsibilities

• Own the design and development of satellite structures and mechanisms.
• Conduct trade studies to optimize cost, schedule, and performance.

Skills

Mechanical Design

Structural Analysis

CAD Modelling

Rapid Prototyping

FEM Software (e.g., ANSYS)

Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

ANSYS

Job description

Join to apply for the Satellite Mechanical Engineer role at NewOrbit Space

Join to apply for the Satellite Mechanical Engineer role at NewOrbit Space

At NewOrbit Space, our mission it to engineer the lowest orbiting satellites on Earth to rapidly advance global connectivity and insight.

We are currently building satellites that can breathe air and operate at an altitude of just 200 km - one-third that of conventional satellites. Thanks to our proprietary propulsion system we can compensate for the atmospheric drag at ultra low altitudes using the air as propellant.

Please note that as we prepare for our maiden satellite mission, we are in a critical growth phase. Our roles will often require extended hours and are not typical 9-to-6 positions.

Your Role

We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer to lead the design and development of the next generation of our air-breathing satellite. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of building complex systems, including expertise in CAD, technical drawings, tolerances, and structural analysis. You should be capable of developing an entire subsystem from the ground up and taking full ownership of the design process, ensuring the success of our upcoming mission. This role demands expertise in mechanical design, structural analysis, and rapid prototyping, with a focus on high-performance and space-ready hardware.

Responsibilities

Own the design and development of next generation structures and mechanisms.

• Rapid design, testing and prototyping (R&D) of satellite subsystems.
• Perform hand calculations and FEA to develop, assess, and optimize designs.
• Conduct trade studies to optimise for cost, schedule, safety, and performance, among other considerations.
• Design and validate mechanical interfaces and mounting strategies for all satellite components.
• Define mechanical test plans (vibration, shock, modal) and support their execution.
• Support material selection with a focus on mechanical and thermal properties, as well as space compatibility (eg atomic oxygen and outgassing).
• 3+ years of experience in mechanical design and analysis, preferably in space or high-performance hardware development.
• Exceptional skills in CAD modelling and drawing preparation.
• Demonstrated understanding of structural analysis and failure modes of complex mechanical systems.
• Experience in using FEM software (e.g. ANSYS) is required.
• Demonstrated experience in rapid design, testing and prototyping (R&D) in your current field.
• Solid understanding and application of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).

Note, you do not have to have experience building satellites.

Why NewOrbit Space

• Pioneering Space Technology – You'll contribute to launching groundbreaking technology into space. Your work on our revolutionary air-breathing ion propulsion system will redefine satellite operations in ultra-low Earth orbits.
• Unmatched Ownership and Impact –You'll experience a level of ownership that's rare in the space industry. You will participate in the full lifecycle of satellite technology.
• Equity and Competitive Salary – You'll receive not just a competitive salary but also company ownership stakes. Your dedication and hard work are rewarded with a share in the technology you help build, ensuring you're a part of our collective success.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package –Including private health insurance with dental and optical coverage, annual healthcare check-ups etc.

Note: This is an on-site, five-days-a-week role based in Reading (20 minutes from London). We provide a financial relocation package, and also sponsor your visa if you're based abroad.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Manufacturing, Engineering, and Science

• Industries

  Manufacturing, Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing, and Space Research and Technology

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