Mechanical Propulsion Engineer

4 days ago

Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand Dawn Aerospace Full time NZ$80,000 - NZ$120,000 per year

About Dawn Aerospace
Dawn Aerospace is a pioneering space technology company committed to sustainable space missions. We design, build, and operate advanced propulsion systems for satellites, helping customers around the world achieve their orbital goals with reliable, green technology. Our Inspace Propulsion team focuses on thrusters and propulsion systems for a wide range of satellite applications.

Role Overview
We are seeking a highly motivated Mechanical Propulsion Engineer to join our Inspace Propulsion team. This role will focus on the design, analysis, testing, and integration of thruster components and subsystems. The successful candidate will contribute to the development of high-performance, reliable propulsion solutions for small to medium-sized satellites.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design and develop mechanical components and assemblies for satellite thrusters, including valves, tanks, feed systems, and structural supports.
  • Perform mechanical analysis, including stress, thermal, and vibration analysis, to ensure components meet performance and reliability requirements.
  • Collaborate with systems, electrical, and software engineers to integrate propulsion subsystems into satellite platforms.
  • Support component and subsystem testing, including test planning, execution, data analysis and test setup development and construction.
  • Participate in manufacturing and supply chain activities to ensure components are producible, maintainable, and compliant with quality standards.
  • Contribute to documentation, including design reports, test plans, and technical presentations.
  • Support continuous improvement and innovation in mechanical design and manufacturing processes.

Required Qualifications And Skills

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
  • 3+ years of experience in mechanical design, preferably in aerospace, propulsion, or fluid systems.
  • Strong CAD skills (SolidWorks, CATIA, or equivalent).
  • Experience with mechanical analysis tools preferred (FEA, thermal analysis, CFD is a plus).
  • Knowledge of materials, tolerances, and manufacturing processes (DFMA)
  • Understanding of fluid dynamics and pressure-fed propulsion systems is highly desirable.
  • Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.

Preferred Attributes

  • Experience with satellite propulsion systems, chemical or electric thrusters.
  • Hands-on experience with assembly, integration, and test of flight hardware.
  • Familiarity with ESA, NASA, or other international aerospace standards and requirements.

Why Join Dawn Aerospace

  • Work in a fast-paced, innovative environment at the forefront of sustainable space propulsion.
  • Collaborate with a highly skilled, multidisciplinary team.
  • Opportunity to see your designs operate in orbit.

If you think you have what it takes but are unsure that you check every box, we still want to hear from you. Having an aerospace background is not essential, we'll teach you on-the-job.

Please note this role involves access to controlled/secure technology. Appointment is conditional on passing background/security vetting and, where required, obtaining any necessary export-control authorisations. Eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis with reference to clearance and licensing requirements.

  • Mechanical Engineer

    4 days ago

    Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand Dawn Aerospace Full time NZ$60,000 - NZ$120,000 per year

    About UsDawn Aerospace designs and builds propulsion systems for satellites of all sizes. We create hardware that flies in space, enabling missions around the world. We're looking for a Mechanical Engineer to join our Tanks & Structures Team, designing and building pressurised components and structural hardware.Aerospace Experience Is Not Required.What...

  • Mechanical Engineer

    4 days ago

    Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand Caliber Design Full time NZ$100,000 - NZ$130,000

    MECHANICAL ENGINEERS IN CHRISTCHURCH- WE NEED YOUWe are busier than ever - our clients who are designing and manufacturing in NZ are flat out and calling on us to help resource their projectsAbout CaliberCaliber Design is an engineering consultancy with a unique business model - our engineers are embedded within client teams, providing hands-on support...

  • Mechanical Engineer

    4 days ago

    Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand Caliber Design Full time NZ$100,000 - NZ$130,000

    MECHANICAL ENGINEERS IN CHRISTCHURCH - WE NEED YOUWe are busier than ever - our clients who are designing and manufacturing in NZ are flat out and calling on us to help resource their projectsAbout CaliberCaliber Design is an engineering consultancy with a unique business model - our engineers are embedded within client teams, providing hands-on support...

  • Intermediate Mechanical Design Engineer

    4 days ago

    Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand Fluid Engineering Full time NZ$80,000 - NZ$120,000 per year

    Are you an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer who enjoys turning ideas into practical, efficient, and well-built machinery?OverviewWe're on the lookout for an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer with a strong background in machinery design. You'll be part of a skilled engineering team designing and developing innovative mechanical systems and...

  • Mechanical Design Engineer

    4 days ago

    Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand Basis Full time NZ$80,000 - NZ$120,000 per year

    About UsAt Basis, we're not just building a company — we're building the future. We're redesigning the electrical systems that power our homes to fight climate change, reduce household costs, and create a better future for generations to come. That means rethinking everything, not just what we build, but how we build it.To do this, we need incredible...

  • Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

    4 days ago

    Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand Fluid Engineering Full time NZ$1,028,000 - NZ$1,544,000 per year

    The Opportunity: Looking to take your mechanical design career to the next level? Join a high-performing engineering team that's pushing the boundaries in automation and machinery design. Based in East Auckland, this role offers variety, ownership, and the chance to work on seriously cool, industry-leading projects. You'll be translating ideas into smart...

  • Mechanical Engineer

    2 days ago

    Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand KiwiRail Full time NZ$37 - NZ$43

    Position based at Waltham, Christchurch (1 Position Available)  Permanent, Full-time Position, 24/7 Rotating Roster (Including Penal Rates) Starting hourly rate between $ $43.30 (Based on Qualifications & Experience) Position Description He kōrero mō mātou | About us: KiwiRail has been connecting New Zealanders for more than 150 years. Our vision,...

  • Structures (Mechanical or Civil) Engineering Lecturer and Researcher

    4 days ago

    Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand Ara Institute of Canterbury Full time NZ$80,000 - NZ$120,000 per year

    Permanent, Full TimeDeliver inclusive, engaging teaching in mechanical and civil engineering programmes.Conduct research that supports industry and Ara's strategic priorities.Support learners through effective assessment, feedback, and guidance.Teach and research in Mechanical and or Civil Engineering, supporting learner success and driving innovation in...

  • Motor Mechanic

    4 days ago

    Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand DD HIRE LIMITED Full time NZ$60,000 - NZ$80,000 per year

    Motor Mechanic wantedWe are looking for multiple Motor Mechanics to join our Auckland Branch. This is a full time role with a minimum 30 hours per week.This role is to repair, maintain and test motor vehicles and related mechanical components.Tasks include:Perform tasks to identify and diagnose mechanical and electrical faults in engines and vehicle...

  • Mechanical Fitter

    4 days ago

    Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand OneStaff Full time NZ$146,560 per year

    We have a number of reputable engineering companies around Christchurch that are looking for experienced Mechanical Fitters to join their teams. If you enjoy pulling machines apart, solving mechanical problems, and getting hand on with quality engineering projects, this is a great time to secure your next role. What You'll Be Doing:Mechanical fitting,...