Launch Vehicle Test Engineer (AIT)

At Orbex we are looking for a Launch Vehicle Test Engineer (AIT), to join our growing team in Forres, Scotland. With us, you will have the opportunity to support the integration stage testing and launch operations for Orbex Prime.

It would be desirable for you to have an understanding of rocketry and related technologies, experience supporting testing campaigns, a general mechanical flair, experience and knowledge with specialist areas such as advanced pipe systems, Hydraulics or cryogenics. You will be providing operational support to test campaigns and related production activities as well as design and development of Ground Support Equipment. 

The system is highly complex, will require safety critical attention & documentation and extensive training is available.

Orbex

Orbex is a leading micro-launch company with our Prime vehicle being prepared to launch from our home spaceport, Space Hub Sutherland. We are well placed to be one of the first operational micro-launch companies in Europe with over €85m of project financing secured, a number of customers signed up, our launch licence application submitted, and backing from organisations including UKSA and ESA.

We are a rapidly growing company with staff located between our production and test facilities in Forres, Scotland and Copenhagen, Denmark. Working on cutting-edge advances in rocket fuel technology, Prime’s carbon footprint is up to 96% lower than comparable vehicles, leading to innovations in propulsion and tank structures. A state-of-the-art re-flight system means we can recover and reuse our technology, and innovations in separation mechanisms mean we leave no debris in space.

Having developed in-house production capability, we can 3D print complex engines, produce full-scale carbon composite fuel tanks, and have avionics and software testing labs in both Scotland and Denmark. Based in Forres, you will be right in the heart of this fast-paced cutting-edge company, gaining a unique insight into what it takes to build a new launch vehicle for a buoyant commercial market.

The Position

The position includes the following tasks and responsibilities:

• Design, development, and AIT activities on launch vehicle systems both at Kinloss and the Spaceport 
• Development and validation testing of launch vehicle Ground Support Equipment (GSE) 
• Test plans and procedures development 
• Test procedure execution 
• Definition of the integration and test flow for the rocket 

Essential information:

This role will require significant time working outdoors, regardless of weather.

Desirable Skills:

• Hydraulics or cryogenics experience
• Good with keeping control of tools, components lists & package lists
• Prior experience with Liquid Oxygen fluid systems or cryogenic propellants, materials compatibility and sealing technology
• Experience supporting testing campaigns related to rocketry such as hot fire testing campaigns.
• Experience working in a Safety Critical environment.

  Personality

  Orbex is a high-paced, startup culture where you will be encouraged to take assume responsibility for tasks and see them through.

  It is imperative that you take initiative, communicate openly and can collaborate with technical and non technical team members.

  You must be able to thrive in an international, diverse and multicultural environment.

  Location

  This role is based in Forres at Orbex’s headquarters with significant time expected supporting our activities at RAF Kinloss, an outdoor test site nearby.

  Orbex Forres is located at the foot of the Scottish Highlands, near Inverness. It's close to the spectacular coastline, wild beaches and amazing wildlife of the Moray Firth, as well as being a short distance from the world famous Loch Ness, and Aviemore ski resort.

  If you enjoy adventurous outdoor pursuits in extraordinary natural environments, the coast and highlands around Forres offer an ideal location.

  Mountaineering, rock climbing, abseiling, hiking, mountain biking, cycling, camping, sailing, surfing, motorbiking and skiing are all within easy reach of our main UK factory, and many members of our team participate in adventure sports in the vast, beautiful settings of Sutherland.

  If you enjoy drone flying, wildlife or landscape photography, some of the most spectacular vistas in the world are directly at your doorstep.

  Security

  You must be a UK or European citizen or from a country that is a signatory to the MTCR convention. You may be required to undergo a UK BPSS check which includes a criminal record check.

  Benefits

  For the right candidate, we offer an excellent benefits package that includes:-

• Competitive salary
• An equity stake in the company so you will really benefit from your hard work as the company grows and is successful. 
• Our roles need to be on-site in Scotland due to the nature of the position, export controls and security, but we are happy to sponsor visas for you and your family and provide relocation assistance as required.
• Company Cycle to Work scheme