Aerospace Engineer (Hardware Focused) in Havant

At LiveLink Aerospace, we are disrupting the status quo. We design, build, and deploy next‑generation aerospace technologies at pace. We don’t believe in bureaucratic silos; we believe in agile engineering, rapid prototyping, and getting high‑performance hardware into the air. If you want to own your designs from the initial sketch to the physical flight test, this is where you belong.

Role Summary

We are looking for a skilled, versatile Aerospace Engineer with a strong foundation in mechanical and/or electronic hardware. Based full‑time in our Havant facility, you will drive the bringing of our physical systems to life. This role is dynamic, requiring a balance between precision engineering at a desk and hands‑on execution in the workshop or field. You won’t just be pushing pixels on a CAD screen—you will fabricate, test, iterate, and deploy complex aerospace hardware.

Your week‑to‑week will look like a mix of:

• Design & Iteration: Developing structural components, enclosures, or electronic layouts.
• Prototyping & Production: Using workshop machinery, 3D printers, and soldering stations to build physical prototypes and production‑ready units.
• Environmental & Rig Testing: Putting hardware through vibration, thermal stress, and impact testing.
• Flight Operations: Heading out into the field to install, troubleshoot, and evaluate your hardware during live flight trials.

Key Responsibilities

• Hardware Development: Lead the mechanical and structural design of aerospace components, ensuring they meet strict weight, aerodynamic, and environmental constraints.
• Prototyping & Assembly: Actively participate in the physical build process, including mechanical assembly, PCB integration, and wiring harnesses.
• Testing & Validation: Design and execute rigorous physical test plans (thermal, structural, and vibration) to validate hardware before flight.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration: Work closely with software and systems teams to integrate hardware components with onboard electronics and firmware.
• Supply Chain & Production Support: Assist in sourcing materials, components, and manufacturing processes to ensure smooth transitions from prototype to production.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Education: A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, or a closely related STEM discipline.
• Proven CAD Experience: Strong proficiency in 3D CAD modeling software (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or Inventor) and creating manufacturing drawings.
• Hands‑On Workshop Skills: Practical experience using workshop tools, fabricating prototypes, and a solid understanding of electronics/soldering.
• Testing Mindset: Experience setting up test rigs, collecting physical data, and diagnosing hardware failures.
• Adaptability: Thrives under pressure, comfortable shifting gears between high‑level design and hands‑on building.

Bonus Points For

• Experience with lightweight composite materials or CNC machining.
• Familiarity with PCB design tools (e.g., Altium, KiCad) and electronic troubleshooting.
• Knowledge of aerospace standards, environmental sealing (IP ratings), or vibration isolation.