Senior Mechanical Engineer

NewOrbit Space Ltd; Reading; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

NewOrbit Space seeks a Senior Mechanical Engineer to drive the design of innovative air-breathing ion propulsion systems for low-orbit satellites. You'll have hands-on ownership in a pioneering role in the aerospace sector, collaborating on cutting-edge technology while benefiting from competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits

Equity and competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits package

Private health insurance with dental and optical coverage

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in mechanical design and analysis.
• Proficient in CAD technology.
• Experience in using FEM software like ANSYS.

Responsibilities

• Lead design of next-gen air-breathing ion propulsion system.
• Conduct rapid prototyping and optimization of designs.
• Perform calculations and FEA for structural integrity.

Skills

CAD modelling

Structural analysis

Rapid design and prototyping

Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T)

FEM software (e.g. ANSYS)

Job description

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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 Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead the design and development of the next generation of our air-breathing ion propulsion system and 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.

Key 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.

Fundamental Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in mechanical design and analysis.
• 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).

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.