Mechanical Engineer - Propulsion System Development

Propulsion Development Engineer

About Us

At GATE Space, we develop green, chemical in-space propulsion solutions for the NewSpace economy. Drawing on years of experience developing rocket engines, our team is chasing the dream of a thriving economy in space and tackling space engineering problems with a rapid prototyping philosophy. We focus on the development of two products: The GATE Jetpack – a plug-and-play mobility solution for satellite missions – and the GATE Thruster – the world’s first chemical propulsion system capable of highly responsive deep throttling and differential thrust stabilization.

At GATE Space, we are committed to workforce diversity, equality and inclusion. We want to build a diverse team and welcome and value all applications irrespective of social and cultural background, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation or religious belief.

About Your Role

As a Mechanical Engineer at GATE Space, you will be responsible for advancing our thruster and propulsion systems, focusing on the design and analysis of mechanical components, structures, and mechanisms. You’ll play a key role in mechanical and thermal design, including close cooperation with parts manufacturing, while applying your numerical analysis expertise to optimize the structural and thermal design. This versatile role requires relevant work experience and offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge propulsion development in a fast-paced environment, supporting the entire development lifecycle.

Your Primary Tasks

1. Development and design of thruster components and propulsion systems
2. Take ownership of the structural and thermal design
3. Conduct numerical mechanical and thermal analysis to verify designs and establish test predictions
4. Apply internal standards in accordance with industry standards
5. Contribute to customer projects as part of the project team
6. Cooperate with the propulsion development, manufacturing, assembly, integration, and testing teams

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
• Industry experience of at least one year (or multiple years in a leading role of a student rocketry team liquid propulsion development) in areas such as:
• Lightweight design of structures and mechanisms
• Design and management of large assemblies
• CAD tools (e.g., Siemens NX)
• Mechanical and thermal numerical analysis (e.g., Ansys)
• Design for manufacturing and testing
• Working in project teams
• [Optional] Practical experience in manufacturing and assembly of mechanical systems
• [Optional] Experience in developing space hardware
• [Optional] Familiarity with industry regulations and standards for space applications
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
• In-depth knowledge of spacecraft propulsion, navigation, and control systems
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and adapt to evolving priorities

About Your Employment

We are seeking a full-time employee, starting as soon as possible. The role is based in Vienna, Austria, with occasional travel across Europe, the US, and to industry events worldwide.

About Your Benefits

• Be part of the development and implementation of space missions
• Shape a fast-growing space technology company
• Attractive gross annual salary of €48,000 (commensurate with experience and qualifications)
• Employee stock option bonus program
• Other perks such as free daily lunch, free public transit ticket, etc.
• Flexible working hours

Join us in shaping the future of in-space mobility. If you're passionate about pioneering technology, space exploration, and business growth, apply now to become a key member of our dynamic team at GATE Space. Together, we'll enable the next generation of space travel and exploration.