Senior Mechanical Engineer

NewOrbit Space Ltd; Reading; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

NewOrbit Space Ltd is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead the design of innovative air-breathing ion propulsion systems. This role offers exceptional ownership and impact in pioneering space technology, with competitive salary and equity options, alongside a comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits

Equity and Competitive Salary

Comprehensive Benefits Package

Private health insurance with dental and optical coverage

Annual healthcare check-ups

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in mechanical design and analysis.
• Exceptional skills in CAD modeling and drawing preparation.
• Experience in using FEM software (e.g., ANSYS) required.

Responsibilities

• Own the design and development of next-generation structures and mechanisms.
• Perform hand calculations and FEA to develop and optimize designs.
• Conduct trade studies to optimize for cost, schedule, safety, and performance.

Skills

CAD modeling

Structural analysis

Rapid design

Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T)

FEM software

Job description

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At NewOrbit Space, our mission is 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 atmospheric drag at ultra-low altitudes using 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 our next-generation 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 to ensure 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 optimize for cost, schedule, safety, and performance, among other considerations.

Fundamental Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in mechanical design and analysis.
• Exceptional skills in CAD modeling 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.