Development Engineer
LAUNCH YOUR CAREER IN SPACE TECHNOLOGY
Are you ready to be part of New Zealand's space revolution? We're seeking a passionate Development Engineer to join our Ion Propulsion team, working on cutting-edge technology that powers the future of space exploration.
THE MISSION
As a Development Engineer, you'll be at the forefront of ion propulsion development, testing new systems and innovating existing designs. Working hands-on with sophisticated hardware, you'll solve complex engineering challenges that directly impact our missions and products. This is your opportunity to work alongside talented development engineers, designers, analysts, and technicians in a collaborative environment where your contributions truly matter.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
- Hands-on Testing: Execute test activities for ion propulsion systems and components
- Innovation: Develop test equipment, procedures, and analysis methods to advance vehicle testing capabilities
- Problem-Solving: Proactively identify and resolve quality issues and technical challenges
- Documentation: Create thorough technical documentation following company standards
- Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams on anomaly resolution and design improvements
- Automation: Develop and maintain data processing and test automation code
- Production Support: Transition acceptance testing processes to production teams
WHAT YOU BRING
Essential
- Passion & Curiosity: A genuine enthusiasm for engineering and a hunger to learn
- Education & Experience: Degree in engineering or physics with 1+ years of relevant industry experience
- Ownership Mindset: Strong sense of responsibility and drive to see projects through to completion
- Hands-On Skills: Proven experience building or testing mechanical or electromechanical components/systems
- Problem-Solving: Exceptional analytical abilities and meticulous attention to detail
- Communication: Excellent reading and writing skills
Desirable
- Experience with electric propulsion testing, vacuum systems, high voltage, or particle beams
- Background in rocket engines, fluid components, or spacecraft propulsion systems
- Python programming capabilities for data manipulation and post-processing
- Experience with instrumentation, sensors, and data acquisition systems
WHAT MAKES YOU SUCCESSFUL HERE
You're someone who:
- Thrives on tough engineering challenges with a positive, can-do attitude
- Takes ownership and delivers results on schedule
- Communicates transparently and provides constructive feedback
- Adapts flexibly to support team needs
- Believes no task is beneath them
- Maintains professionalism and follows safety protocols rigorously
WHY JOIN US?
- Work on real space missions with tangible impact
- Collaborate with a world-class engineering team
- Develop your career in New Zealand's growing space industry
- Engage with cutting-edge ion propulsion technology
- Contribute to innovations that push the boundaries of space exploration
READY FOR LIFTOFF?
If you're motivated by complex engineering challenges and want to contribute to humanity's future in space, we want to hear from you.
Apply now to join Space Systems NZ and help shape the future of space propulsion.
