Contract Mechanical Design Engineer (Outside IR35)

• 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 operate at an altitude of just 200 km - one-third that of conventional satellites.

Role Overview

• Responsible for the mechanical design of satellite structures, mechanisms, and related hardware from concept through qualification and on-orbit operation.
• Working within a small, multidisciplinary team, you will translate requirements into manufacturable designs and validate them through prototyping and environmental testing.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical systems and components for satellites, including primary structure, thermal-control hardware, secondary structures, and mechanisms.
• Generate 3D CAD models, fully dimensioned drawings, and interface control documents using GD&T, managing assembly configuration and PLM data.
• Take hardware from conceptual design through qualification to on-orbit operations, leading design reviews, and planning verification tests.
• Optimise designs for manufacturability, cost, mass, and reliability, working directly with manufacturers and suppliers.
• Support prototype builds, assembly, integration, and environmental test campaigns, iterating designs based on results.
• Collaborate with electrical, software, systems, and thermal engineers to integrate mechanical components into the satellite platform.

Required Skills & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, or related engineering discipline.
• 5+ years’ experience in satellite mechanical design, including primary structure, pipe routing, electromechanics, and MGSE for aerospace applications (satellites, payloads, launch vehicles).
• Proficiency in CAD software such as SolidWorks.
• Practical application of GD&T and experience producing manufacturing-ready drawings.
• Solid grounding in mechanical design principles, materials, structural mechanics, FEA ,and thermal management.
• Demonstrated ability to design, build, and test hardware, including troubleshooting and iteration.

WHY NEWORBIT SPACE?

• Pioneering Space Technology – You'll contribute to launching groundbreaking technology into space. Your work on our revolutionary ion propulsion system and ULEO satellite platform will redefine satellite operations and disrupt traditional LEO operations.
• 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.
• Hybrid Work - A hybrid setup with one dedicated remote day per week.
• Visa Sponsorship & Relocation Support - We provide a relocation package and sponsor your visa if you’re joining us from abroad.