Mechnical Design Engineer

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer – Space Systems (6 Month Contract – Outside IR35)

I'm currently supporting an innovative UK-based space technology company that is pushing the boundaries of satellite engineering. This is an exciting opportunity to join a growing team developing next-generation satellite platforms designed to challenge conventional approaches to low Earth orbit operations.

This role offers the chance to work on the complete lifecycle of cutting-edge space hardware, from initial concept through to qualification, launch, and in-orbit operation, within a collaborative multidisciplinary engineering environment.

The Role

As a Senior Mechanical Design Engineer, you will be responsible for the design and development of satellite structures, mechanisms, and associated hardware. You'll work closely with systems, electrical, software, thermal and manufacturing engineers to deliver innovative mechanical solutions for advanced spacecraft.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop satellite mechanical systems including primary structures, secondary structures, thermal hardware and deployment mechanisms.
• Produce high-quality 3D CAD models, detailed manufacturing drawings and engineering documentation using GD&T principles.
• Take products through the full engineering lifecycle, from concept and detailed design through qualification testing and operational deployment.
• Lead and participate in technical design reviews and verification activities.
• Optimise designs for mass, manufacturability, cost, reliability and performance.
• Support prototype manufacture, assembly, integration and environmental testing, implementing design improvements based on test results.
• Work closely with suppliers and manufacturing partners to ensure successful production and delivery.
• Collaborate across multidisciplinary engineering teams to successfully integrate mechanical systems into complete spacecraft.

About You

You’ll ideally have:

• A degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or a related discipline.
• At least five years' experience designing mechanical systems within the space or aerospace sector.
• Experience designing satellite structures, payloads, launch vehicle hardware, electromechanical systems or ground support equipment.
• Strong SolidWorks (or equivalent CAD) experience.
• Excellent knowledge of GD&T and producing manufacturing-ready engineering drawings.
• Experience applying structural analysis, material selection, FEA and thermal design principles.
• Hands‑on experience developing, building, testing and refining mechanical hardware.

What's on Offer

• Opportunity to work on genuinely pioneering space technology.
• Ownership of projects across the full product lifecycle.
• Competitive salary with an equity opportunity.
• Private healthcare including dental and optical cover.
• Hybrid working arrangement.
• The opportunity to join an ambitious engineering team developing technology that will shape the future of satellite communications.

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