Junior Mechanical Engineer
Magdrive
Other Engineering
Posted on Mar 13, 2026
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 Junior Mechanical Engineer 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 youll be doing
- Support the design and development of mechanical components and assemblies for propulsion and propellant handling systems.
- Assist with building, operating, and maintaining test rigs and experimental hardware under guidance from senior engineers.
- Help plan and run test activities, including setting up instrumentation, capturing data, and recording results.
- Document designs, tests, and outcomes clearly (drawings, BoMs, test notes, and procedures).
- Work closely with electrical, software, and physics teammates to help integrate and debug subsystems.
- Support suppliers and workshop activities such as machining, assembly, and basic tooling.
- Take ownership of well-defined tasks or subsystems, with increasing responsibility as experience grows.
What are we looking for?
Essential:
- Degree (BEng/MEng/MSc) in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or similar discipline.
- 1-2 years of experience in mechanical design.
- Experience running test campaigns.
- Hands-on mechanical build or prototyping experience (university projects, internships, or early career roles).
- Mechanical design skills using a professional CAD tool (e.g. SolidWorks).
Desirable:
- Experience in space hardware, propulsion, or high-reliability mechanical systems.
- Knowledge of manufacturing processes, engineering materials and GD&T.
- Experience with HV electronics mechanical design.
- Introductory experience with FEA or simulation tools.
- Experience writing technical documentation, lab notes, or test reports.
- Familiarity with control and data analysis scripting (e.g. Python).
- Experience using digital tools in engineering workflows (PLM, PDM, task management, etc)
What we offer
💷 Salary: £30k – £40k 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