Satellite Mechanical Design Engineer

Satellite Mechanical Design Engineer

Location: Reading

Type: Full-Time, Hybrid

iO Associates are partnered with an innovative space technology company developing next-generation satellite platforms designed to push the boundaries of low Earth orbit operations. Due to continued growth, they are seeking a Satellite Mechanical Design Engineer to join their rapidly expanding engineering team. This is an opportunity to work on cutting-edge spacecraft technology, taking ownership of mechanical design activities throughout the full product lifecycle, from initial concept through to launch and operational deployment.

The Role

As a Satellite Mechanical Design Engineer, you will be responsible for the design and development of satellite structures, mechanisms, and associated hardware. Working within a multidisciplinary engineering team, you will translate system requirements into robust, manufacturable designs and support validation through prototyping and environmental testing.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical systems and components for satellite platforms, including primary structures, thermal control hardware, secondary structures, and deployment mechanisms.
• Produce 3D CAD models, manufacturing drawings, interface control documents and associated technical documentation.
• Support programmes through concept development, qualification activities, testing and in-service operations.
• Lead and contribute to design reviews, verification planning and technical assessments.
• Optimise designs with consideration for manufacturability, cost, mass, performance, and reliability.
• Work closely with suppliers and manufacturing partners to ensure successful hardware delivery.
• Support assembly, integration, prototype builds and environmental test campaigns.
• Collaborate with systems, thermal, electrical and software engineering teams to successfully integrate hardware into spacecraft platforms.

Essential Experience

• Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years experience in mechanical design within the space sector.
• Experience designing satellite structures, electromechanical systems, mechanical ground support equipment (MGSE), or similar aerospace hardware.
• Proficiency with CAD packages such as SolidWorks or equivalent.
• Strong understanding and practical application of GD&T.
• Experience producing manufacturing-ready engineering drawings.
• Knowledge of materials, structural mechanics, FEA, thermal management and mechanical design best practices.
• Demonstrated experience taking hardware through design, build, test and validation activities.

What’s on Offer

• Opportunity to contribute to pioneering space technologies and next-generation spacecraft systems.
• Significant technical ownership and involvement across the full product lifecycle.
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Private healthcare, including dental and optical cover.
• Hybrid working arrangement.
• Relocation support and visa sponsorship available where required.
• Career development within a fast-growing and highly innovative engineering environment.

If you’re interested in working on advanced spacecraft programmes and contributing to breakthrough developments in satellite technology, please apply now or contact iO Associates for further information.