About Magdrive
Magdrive is developing the next generation of spacecraft propulsion. Our cutting-edge thruster technology promises to deliver unmatched thrust and efficiency, enabling accessibility to new orbits and entirely new industries such as satellite servicing, orbital assembly, and interplanetary transport . We are also starting to develop recycling & refuelling approaches for future spacecraft propulsion.
We offer a supportive and flexible work environment, with the ability to adjust work hours, hybrid working, competitive salary, comprehensive health insurance, and regular company socials. Magdrive is based at the Harwell Innovation Campus in Oxfordshire, UK, with occasional remote working possible.
Magdrive is developing the next generation of spacecraft propulsion. Our cutting-edge thruster technology promises to deliver unmatched thrust and efficiency, enabling accessibility to new orbits and entirely new industries such as satellite servicing, orbital assembly, and interplanetary transport . We are also starting to develop recycling & refuelling approaches for future spacecraft propulsion.
We offer a supportive and flexible work environment, with the ability to adjust work hours, hybrid working, competitive salary, comprehensive health insurance, and regular company socials. Magdrive is based at the Harwell Innovation Campus in Oxfordshire, UK, with occasional remote working possible.
About the role
As a Propulsion Engineer (Mechanical) at Magdrive, you will support the design, build and testing of mechanical components for our next generation spacecraft propulsion systems. Working closely with senior engineers, you’ll help develop propulsion hardware, assist with experimental test rigs and test campaigns, and support subsystem integration across mechanical, electrical and software teams. This is a hands on role where you will develop practical engineering experience while contributing to hardware that moves Magdrive technology from concept to flight ready systems.
What you’ll be doing
· Design thruster structural components and support mechanical integration from concept through flight hardware.
· Ensure coherent, clash‑free integration of mechanical and electrical hardware, including structures, components, and PCBs.
· Support the transition of designs from R&D prototypes to flight release, ensuring compliance with environmental and mechanical requirements.
· Support mechanical aspects of environmental and functional test campaigns, including test configurations and fixtures.
· Incorporate MAIT feedback and NCRs to resolve recurring assembly, test, and integration issues at design source.
· Support definition and verification of mechanical interfaces to the spacecraft, including mounting, alignment, and load paths.
What are we looking for?
Essential:
· Degree (BEng/MEng/MSc) in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or similar discipline.
· 3-5 years of experience developing space or high-performance mechanical hardware.
· Experience supporting environmental test campaigns.
· Proficiency in professional 3D CAD (e.g. SolidWorks) and structured engineering workflows.
Desirable:
· Experience with electric propulsion, plasma systems, or high-voltage hardware.
· Familiarity with ECSS, NASA, or equivalent aerospace standards.
· Experience applying and improving mechanical standards within a growing engineering organisation.
· Experience with configuration control and change management processes.
· Exposure to ISO9001 or AS9100 environments.
· Experience with structural and thermal analysis methods (hand calculations and/or FEA).[TC1]
· Experience contributing to a flight hardware subsystem within a multidisciplinary team.
What we offer
💷 Salary: £50k to £60k per annum (DOE)
🌴 25 days annual leave + bank holidays + Birthdays, and long-service awards (up to 30 days)
🏥 Private medical insurance
⏰ Flexible working hours
💻 Remote working where possible
🏡 Financial support for home office setup
🌴 25 days annual leave + bank holidays + Birthdays, and long-service awards (up to 30 days)
🏥 Private medical insurance
⏰ Flexible working hours
💻 Remote working where possible
🏡 Financial support for home office setup