Mechanical Engineer

Gravitilab Aerospace Services is based near Norwich, with collaborations and operations with launch partners in Scotland. An exciting, fast-growing start-up and industry pathfinder for microgravity testing services and aiding UK space science goals. With decades of experience in rocket technology, we are now seeking a new member of the team to work on the development of a suborbital launch vehicle.

Job Title

Mechanical Engineer

Job Description 

As a mechanical engineer, you will assist the mechanical team and focus on the design and analysis of the structural components of a high-performance suborbital rocket. Your work will include mechanical interfaces definition and optimisation between different subsystems and mechanisms.

Why Gravitilab? 

  • Work on a unique project: The first reusable suborbital launch vehicle to be launched from the UK 
  • One of the only launch vehicle manufacturers in the UK with a hybrid rocket engine test stand on-site where we perform test firings for research, development, and verification purposes
  • Work alongside a highly passionate and energetic team 
  • Unique opportunities to progress and expand responsibilities within the company 
  • Have real responsibility for technical subsystems as every person has an important role in our rapidly growing start-up 
  • Open-plan work environment that encourages trans-disciplinary collaboration with technical experts in different fields 
  • Be part of a fast-paced start-up where you can get your hands dirty with practical

Responsibilities

  • Creating reliable and robust designs for components and subsystems of launch vehicles, and other designs as required 
  • Contribute to development of electromechanical systems  
  • Work through Gravitilab’s ECSS derived engineering methodology and concurrent design platform
  • Be involved in ideation, planning and strategy for upcoming projects 
  • Be responsible for specific work packages and equipment across the company as required
  • Working collaboratively with other departments to resolve requirements and specifications 
  • Assisting with procurement related to projects 
  • Carrying out FE analysis with appropriate software
  • Delivery of work adhering to timelines and assisting projects remain within budget  

Required Skills, Qualifications and Experience 

Skills 

  • Ability to use CAD and CAE software to design components in an iterative process
  • Ability to follow and understand engineering drawings, manuals, and reports
  • Ability to create engineering drawings using CAD software
  • Ability to follow and understand work safety protocol
  • Ability to work independently or as part of a multidisciplinary team

Qualifications and Experience 

  • BEng in mechanical Engineering or similar with 3+ years of experience in the engineering industry or MEng with 1+ year(s)
  • Experience using 3D modelling software (Siemens NX or SolidWorks preferred)
  • Good knowledge and experience in structural simulations (structural dynamics and static) using FEA software (Siemens SimCenter and ANSYS preferred)
  • Good understanding of dimensioning and tolerancing
  • Good knowledge and experience using Microsoft Office

Preferred 

  • Experience with thermal management and thermal protections systems
  • Experience or knowledge of aeroelasticity/aerodynamics
  • Knowledge of composites and advanced materials
  • Hands-On experience in a workshop environment

Person Values 

  • Down to earth – we are looking for someone who is approachable and practical. You’ll be happy to roll your sleeves up as required and willing to lead others
  • Stimulating – you are happy to challenge and debate – to push the organisations and partners you work with to find solutions and make change 
  • Curious – you might be fascinated by space, science or engineering. You will always have an appetite to know and discover more 
  • Progressive – you’ll be willing to find solutions that may not have been thought of before and be willing to try new things 
  • Gravitas – your decisions are based on strong foundations of experience and knowledge, you will be respected by your peers and valued for your opinions 
  • Honest – you’re confident in your abilities to be clear about the work you have done without exaggeration or omission so that, as a team, issues can be tackled together

Salary 

Subject to experience.

Process

Send a cover letter and C.V. to [email protected]