At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and test mechanical systems for space applications, focusing on life-science payloads.
- Company: Join Kayser Space Ltd., a pioneering SME in the exciting field of space exploration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on experience, and potential for contract extension.
- Other info: Opportunity for travel and collaboration with leading space agencies like ESA and NASA.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking projects that support human space exploration and scientific research.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering, strong CAD skills, and excellent manual dexterity required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Contract: 6 months (With possibility of extension)
Salary: Competitive
Location: Harwell Campus, Didcot, Oxfordshire
Location Type: On-site
Company Description: Kayser Space Ltd. is a UK-based SME located at the Harwell Campus in Oxfordshire and forms part of the Kayser Space Group, whose parent company is headquartered in Livorno, Italy. Established in the UK in 2015, the company draws upon over 40 years of group heritage in the field of space systems and microgravity research. Kayser Space specialises in the design, manufacture, and verification of payloads and systems for microgravity research and human space exploration in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). To date, the group has successfully delivered and operated more than 133 payloads aboard the International Space Station (ISS), supporting a wide range of scientific and technological missions.
The company provides both technical and managerial expertise to assess feasibility and support the development and implementation of bioprocessing and life-science systems capable of operating within the constraints of the space environment. All activities are conducted in compliance with stringent product assurance, safety, and regulatory requirements applicable to crewed missions and launch vehicles, while also addressing the operational and logistical aspects of spaceflight. Kayser is a regular contractor to ESA and the UK Space Agency on life-science and exploration programmes, and has supported multiple UK-led experiments successfully flown to the ISS. The company continues to grow, with a strong pipeline of new and innovative projects.
Role Description: You will work under the supervision of senior engineering staff, reviewing space payload design concepts and elaborating detailed solutions to meet project requirements, primarily in the field of life-science applications in biology and medicine. As befits the work environment of an SME, you will gradually assume responsibility for a range of tasks throughout the entire project cycle, to be accomplished timely and with discipline.
In addition to payload design work, you will be involved in prototyping and manufacturing of mechanical parts, interfacing with our supply chain by means of preparing manufacturing specifications and purchasing orders, supporting the quality assurance through the inspection/assessment of workshops, manufactured products, acceptance tests and final product approval. You will spend part of your time in the company’s mechanical laboratory supporting payload assembly, integration and test, therefore you are expected to have excellent hand-to-eye coordination, be proficient in the use of small hand tools and be able to develop a good understanding of basic laboratory equipment and practices. Laboratory duties will also require the operation, maintenance and upgrade of measurement and test equipment.
Support to integration and test activities at external laboratories may be required, particularly to execute vibration/thermal tests, mission simulations or space flight preparations. These activities are normally performed at facilities on the Harwell Campus and at partner laboratories throughout the UK. Travel overseas may be required at certain stages of a project, including supporting payload integration activities at the launch site. All of these activities are underpinned by engineering documentation that undergoes rigorous scrutiny, review, and final approval by organisations such as ESA, NASA, and UKSA, ensuring compliance with safety standards, launch vehicle requirements, and broader regulatory frameworks. Therefore, the ideal candidate must demonstrate strong proficiency in producing clear, accurate, and high-quality technical documentation.
Qualifications/Skills and Experience:
- BEng/MEng/ MSc in Space Systems, Mechanical, Aerospace, Biomedical Engineering, or a related discipline
- Strong CAD proficiency (preferably Autodesk Inventor), including the ability to produce detailed 2D manufacturing drawings
- Excellent manual dexterity and hand–eye coordination, with the ability to assemble small-scale payloads
- Working knowledge of general laboratory practices and equipment, including the safe use of precision hand tools
- Fluency in spoken and written English is essential
- Understanding of material properties and systems design methodology
- Ability to obtain a valid passport with no restrictions on travel to the United States
- Knowledge of microfluidics is highly desirable
- Familiarity with wet lab protocols is advantageous
- A solid understanding of cell biology principles is beneficial
Mechanical Design and Test Engineer for Space Systems employer: Kayser Space UK
Kayser Space Ltd. is an exceptional employer located at the innovative Harwell Campus in Oxfordshire, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters creativity and collaboration in the field of space systems. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to contribute to groundbreaking projects that support human space exploration and scientific research. With a strong emphasis on employee development and a culture that values teamwork and innovation, Kayser Space provides a rewarding experience for those passionate about advancing technology in the space sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical Design and Test Engineer for Space Systems
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the space systems field on LinkedIn or at industry events. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Bring a portfolio of your CAD designs and any relevant projects to interviews. It’s a great way to demonstrate your hands-on experience and creativity.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for technical questions! Brush up on your knowledge of microfluidics and cell biology principles. Being able to discuss these topics confidently can really impress your interviewers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications directly from candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team at Kayser Space. It shows initiative and enthusiasm!
We think you need these skills to ace Mechanical Design and Test Engineer for Space Systems
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Mechanical Design and Test Engineer role. Highlight relevant experience in space systems, mechanical engineering, and any specific projects that showcase your skills in CAD and technical documentation.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about working in the space industry and how your background fits with our mission at Kayser Space. Be sure to mention any specific experiences that relate to life-science applications or payload design.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:We want to see your proficiency in CAD software like Autodesk Inventor. Include examples of your work, such as detailed drawings or projects you've completed, to demonstrate your technical capabilities and attention to detail.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Kayser Space!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kayser Space UK
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of space systems and mechanical engineering principles. Familiarise yourself with the specific projects Kayser Space has worked on, especially those related to life-science applications. This will show that you're genuinely interested in their work and can contribute meaningfully.
✨Show Off Your CAD Skills
Since strong CAD proficiency is a must, be prepared to discuss your experience with Autodesk Inventor or similar software. Bring examples of your previous work, like detailed 2D manufacturing drawings, to demonstrate your capabilities. If possible, practice explaining your design process clearly and concisely.
✨Hands-On Experience Matters
Highlight any hands-on experience you have with mechanical assembly or laboratory practices. Be ready to talk about specific tools you've used and how you've applied your manual dexterity in past projects. This will help convey your practical skills and readiness for the role.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to material properties, systems design methodology, and even microfluidics. Review key concepts and be ready to explain them in simple terms. This will not only showcase your knowledge but also your ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.
