Propulsion Engineer

Job Opportunity: Propulsion Engineer
Location: Westcott, United Kingdom

About the Client:
Our client is at the forefront of providing innovative propulsion systems and advanced space technologies. Specialising in the design and manufacture of cutting-edge components for both commercial and governmental space missions, they pride themselves on delivering high performance products while maintaining the highest standards of safety, sustainability, and engineering excellence.

As part of a leading international group, they support space exploration with an unwavering commitment to technological advancement and mission success. A global supplier of chemical propulsion to the key spacecraft manufacturers, their rocket engines and thrusters serve commercial, defence, and science markets, and several of their engines have powered spacecraft around the solar system from Mercury to Jupiter. Their engines enabled the first private company to successfully land on the moon in 2025.

They host the National Space Agency's testing facility and work closely with the National and European Space Agencies on a range of projects. Standing by their core values of Precision, Dedication and Care, this organisation offers a collaborative and dynamic environment where innovation and excellence are highly valued, with professional development and training in the latest space technologies.

Position Overview:
Our client is experiencing a period of growth with growing demand for both their products and expertise. To support this, they are seeking a talented Propulsion Engineer. The role will be critical in supporting current project work — including RELIANCE, LEROS 4, LEROS 1c, and LEROS 2b — as well as potential future work across engines, systems, and fluidic components projects.

This is a role which requires flexibility and an ability to meet ambitious and often fluctuating deadlines. The successful candidate will provide engineering support across design, development, manufacturing, and testing, while acting as a key technical interface with customers and internal teams.

Key Responsibilities:

Provide engineering support into design and development of new products, including:
Support generation of designs and technical drawings.
Performance of functional analyses to provide justification of designs.
Performing Engine System analysis and engine component analysis (e.g. nozzle CFD analysis, EcoSim System Modelling, etc.). 
Analysis of collected data to ascertain performance of products and compliance to requirements flowed down by customers both in development and production.
Help support/manage suppliers and subcontractors feeding into programmes.
Generate documentation and support internal and customer meetings (e.g. PDR, CDR, TRR, etc.).
Communicate issues and answer questions raised by the customer.
Support design, development, and management of manufacture, manufacturing processes, assembly, integration, and testing in support of programme deliverables.
Provide support for hot-fire tests of bi-propellant and monopropellant rocket engines.
Support technical aspects of bids and proposals for external customers.
Production of test plans and project documentation.
Provide technical input and support technical investigations.
Interface with other areas of engineering to allow accurate technical assessments.
nterface with marketing to understand customers' needs.
Apply fundamental principles of Data Acquisition.

​​​Qualifications:
Essential

Degree in Engineering or a similar discipline with a minimum of 3 years' industry experience.
Detailed technical knowledge of bipropellant and monopropellant rocket engines and thrusters.
An understanding of manufacturing and machining processes.
Ability to produce, interpret, and review requirements and their design needs.
Intelligent, logical approach to problem solving with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
High level of proficiency in common PC-based applications with knowledge of CAD, LabWorks, and related design packages (e.g. PTC Creo, EcoSim Pro, NASA CEA, Python, LabView, Ansys/NASTRAN Structural, Ansys/ESATAN Thermal).
Ability to communicate effectively to a range of stakeholders, playing a key role in project teams and working closely with customers. 
Ability to work under pressure to achieve project outcomes on time and within budget. Thorough understanding of safe working practices and working knowledge of task related H&S regulations.

Desirable:

A positive attitude to work and a willingness to learn and develop.
Adaptability: maintain effectiveness during times of change.
Strong communication skills: clearly convey information and ideas to ensure others understand.
Sound decision-making: take action consistent with facts, constraints, and consequences.
Initiative: self-starting, self-motivated, and independent thinking.
Strong work management: effectively manage own time and resources to complete tasks.
Quality orientation: accomplish tasks by considering all areas involved.

Work Environment & Physical Demands:

Duties will mainly be performed in a standard office environment, with occasional attendance in cleanroom and test site facility environments.
Must work safely and conscientiously in areas with known hazards, including noise, chemicals, lubricants, solvents, and cleaning fluids.
Occasional late shifts, weekends, and holidays may be required.
May involve manual handling, climbing ladders, working at height, and physical activity including bending, kneeling, walking, and crouching.
Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Use of PC equipment is essential.

What the Client Offers:

Competitive salary
Matched 5% Pension contribution
Private Health & Dental Care
Enhanced Maternity & Paternity pay
EV scheme — available after probationary period
Life Assurance cover defined death-in-service benefit
Enhanced Sick pay + provision of a substantial benefit for long-term ill-health
Access to a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
Free on-site parking
Cycle to work scheme
Discount Platform
Free tea/coffee & fresh fruit