Orbex is seeking a Lead Stress Engineer for our flight structures team, focusing on structural analysis, failure mode analysis, and testing support for Orbex Prime.
Orbex is a leading micro-launch company developing Prime and Proxima launch vehicles, preparing for launch from Scotland. We are among the first operational micro-launch companies in Europe, with over €122m/£103m secured in project financing, a number of signed customers, a submitted launch license application, and backing from UKSA and ESA.
Our rapidly growing team operates from facilities in Forres, Scotland, and Copenhagen, Denmark. We work on cutting-edge advancements in rocket fuel technology, with Prime’s carbon footprint being up to 96% lower than comparable vehicles, and innovations in propulsion, tank structures, re-flight systems, and debris-free orbit departure.
Based in Forres, you will be at the heart of this fast-paced, innovative environment, gaining unique insights into building new launch vehicles for a dynamic commercial market.
Orbex is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity in the aerospace industry.
The Position
Role and Responsibilities:
* Perform, validate, and document structural analysis using hand calculations and FEA for composite and metallic components and assemblies.
* Collaborate with the design team to iterate concepts using appropriate sizing and optimization methods for a 'design by analysis' approach.
* Develop analysis and test plans based on high-level requirements.
* Provide support to hardware development and testing as needed.
Required Qualifications and Experience:
* Degree or higher in Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
* Industry experience in analyzing mass-efficient structural parts for high-performance applications such as space, aerospace, defense, and motorsport.
* Proficiency in industry-standard FEA packages (e.g., FEMAP, Nastran, Hypermesh, Optistruct).
* Experience with CAD systems focusing on geometry preparation for analysis.
* Proactive team player with excellent communication skills.
* Experience in static testing and failure mode analysis.
* Ability to work under pressure across multiple projects.
Desirable Qualifications and Experience:
* Experience with composite structural analysis for space/aerospace applications, including bonded joints.
* Knowledge of vibration analysis methodologies relevant to aerospace.
* Experience with COPVs or composite pressure structures.
* Familiarity with industry standards like MIL-HDBK-5/17, ECSS-E-HB-32, NASA-STD-5001, GSFC-STD-7000.
* Experience with materials testing and structural development.
Location – Forres
This role requires onsite presence in Scotland at Orbex’s headquarters in Forres, near Inverness, surrounded by natural beauty and outdoor activities. The area offers opportunities for mountaineering, climbing, hiking, biking, and water sports, as well as scenic landscapes perfect for photography and outdoor pursuits.
Security
You must be a UK or European citizen or from a country that is a signatory to the MTCR convention. A UK BPSS check, including a criminal record check, may be required.
Benefits
* Salary of £48-65k depending on experience.
* 34 days paid holiday including bank and public holidays.
* NEST workplace pension scheme.
* Cycle to Work scheme.
* Employee Assistance Programme, including mortgage advice and health/wellbeing apps.
* Group Life Insurance, x4 annual salary.
* Support with visas and relocation, including 1 month paid accommodation, relocation allowance, and visa support.
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