At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as a Materials Technical Textiles Engineer, innovating for space-based services.
- Company: Oxford Space Systems, a leader in deployable antennas for space.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, 28 days holiday, and a contributory pension scheme.
- Other info: Exciting career growth opportunities in a dynamic and innovative environment.
- Why this job: Make an impact in the aerospace industry with cutting-edge materials technology.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering or materials science with experience in advanced materials.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Harwell, United Kingdom | Posted on 22/07/2026
Oxford Space Systems develops innovative deployable antennas for space. Our aim is to be the global leader in this field, providing effective solutions today for the space-based services of the future. We are leveraging innovations from beyond the space sector to make our deployable antenna designs more lightweight, cost effective and industrialised when compared to legacy approaches.
This is an exciting time to join us as we scale up for the future, having already delivered multiple systems for operational satellites within-orbit deployment success, and significant investment in our facilities with a state-of-the-art head office at Harwell and a bespoke manufacturing facility in Abingdon.
The Role
Reporting to the Chief Mechanical Engineer, you will be our materials and technical textiles specialist, supporting across OSS deployable antenna product lines and working closely with project teams to deliver qualified spaceflight hardware that meets customer requirements. You will provide expertise, guidance and review across the development, qualification and delivery of spaceflight metallic meshes for our lightweight deployable reflectors. You will establish materials engineering standards and processes that underpin consistency, quality and agility in project delivery. You will collaborate with Chief Engineers and Production teams to ensure that design for manufacture and industrialisation is front-and-centre of the design process. You will also maintain strong links into the space industry, academia and the wider aerospace community, keeping OSS at the forefront of materials and technical textiles innovation.
About You
You will hold a degree, or equivalent, in mechanical or aerospace engineering, materials science, textile technology, composites or a related subject, with proven experience of designing, characterising and developing textiles, polymers, composites or other high-performance materials for demanding environments. Hands-on knowledge of technical textile or other advanced material manufacturing methods is essential, along with experience of mechanical or thermal modelling software and of providing technical support to complex multi-disciplinary projects. You will bring a pragmatic, logical approach to problem solving and the communication and interpersonal skills to convey materials engineering concepts to colleagues across disciplines.
This role may be appointed at Senior or Principal level depending on the depth of experience, autonomy and breadth of influence the successful candidate demonstrates. The core responsibilities are consistent across both levels; what differs is the scale and independence with which they are delivered.
What We Offer
- a competitive salary that will reflect the level the role is appointed at
- exciting career opportunities
- the ability to work flexibly
- a benefits allowance
- employee discount and assistance programme
- 28 days basic holiday plus bank holidays
- a contributory pension scheme
Materials Technical Textiles Engineer in Harwell employer: Oxford Space Systems
At Oxford Space Systems, we pride ourselves on being an innovative leader in the space sector, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters creativity and collaboration. Our state-of-the-art facilities in Harwell provide employees with the tools and resources needed for professional growth, while our commitment to flexible working arrangements and competitive benefits ensures a healthy work-life balance. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of technology and making a meaningful impact in the aerospace industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Materials Technical Textiles Engineer in Harwell
✨Join Aerospace Forums and Groups
Get involved in aerospace engineering forums and online communities, like the AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics). It's a great way to meet industry peers and stay updated on job openings and trends in the field.
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye on upcoming aerospace conferences and events where you can network with professionals and showcase your interest. Events like the Farnborough International Airshow are not just about flying machines; they're a goldmine for connections and potential job leads.
✨Spotlight Your Projects
Make sure to highlight any hands-on experience or projects on your portfolio that showcase your skills in aerospace engineering. Employers love seeing practical applications of theoretical knowledge. Show us what you've got!
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
When you find companies you want to work for, head straight to their careers page to apply for full-time roles, like the one with Oxford Space Systems for a Materials Technical Textiles Engineer. This often puts your application in front of the right people faster than just waiting for job boards!
We think you need these skills to ace Materials Technical Textiles Engineer in Harwell
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for the aerospace engineering role at Oxford Space Systems, make sure to highlight your technical expertise. Include specific software skills, like CAD tools or simulation software, and any relevant engineering projects you’ve worked on. This is your chance to really shine and showcase your engineering toolkit!
Don't Skip Your Projects!:Include a section in your CV dedicated to projects that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities in aerospace engineering. Whether it's a university project, an internship, or personal work, we love seeing how you’ve applied your skills in real-world scenarios. Make it clear what your role was and the impact of the project.
Show Your Passion in Your Cover Letter:At Oxford Space Systems, we're not just looking for skills – we want to know why you’re passionate about aerospace engineering. Use your cover letter to express what excites you about aviation technology and your career goals. Share any relevant experiences or inspirations that have led you to apply for this full-time position.
Tailor Your CV for Aerospace:Make sure your CV is specifically tailored to aerospace engineering. Focus on your education, any certifications, and your work experience, ensuring you highlight aspects that relate directly to the role. Don’t forget to mention any internships or apprenticeships that have given you hands-on experience.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Space Systems
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Aerospace engineering is all about technical precision, so make sure you’re comfortable with key concepts like aerodynamics, propulsion, and materials science. We recommend going through any relevant coursework or projects you’ve worked on – these real-world examples can illustrate your understanding during the interview with Oxford Space Systems.
✨Showcase Your Projects with Confidence
Make sure to have a portfolio ready that details any significant projects you've worked on, whether it’s a group assignment or a personal endeavour. Be prepared to discuss the challenges you faced, the tools you used, like CAD software, and what you learned from the experience, as this will show your problem-solving skills in action.
✨Prepare for Technical Interviews
Expect some technical questions or even problem-solving exercises during your interview with Oxford Space Systems. Get familiar with design challenges or theoretical problems related to aerospace; this can range from calculating lift and drag forces to materials selection under stress. Practising these can help you feel more at ease when faced with tricky questions.
✨Emphasise Your Passion and Teamwork Skills
As a full-time candidate, it’s crucial to convey your passion for aerospace engineering and your ability to work in teams. Highlight any group projects or internships you've done, focusing on how you collaborated with others to achieve a goal. Companies like Oxford Space Systems love seeing candidates who not only have technical skills but also fit well within their team culture.
