Deputy Head of Propulsion Engineering

Deputy Head of Propulsion Engineering
Location: Queensland, Australia (Relocation Available for EU & UK-based Candidates)
Employment Type: Full-Time | On-Site
Package: Competitive Salary + Relocation Support + Visa Sponsorship + Benefits

Are you an experienced propulsion engineering leader seeking a life-changing career move? Would you consider relocating to Australia to join a pioneering space company working on the next generation of hybrid rocket propulsion systems?

On offer is a rare opportunity to take on a senior engineering role with a fast-scaling launch vehicle manufacturer that’s building rockets from the ground up. You’ll lead future propulsion programs and help deliver a pipeline of advanced spaceflight systems – all from a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility in Queensland.

This is a chance to shape the propulsion systems of the future and be part of a company pushing the boundaries of innovation in the commercial space industry.

The Opportunity
Join a forward-thinking space organisation building launch vehicles designed to deliver payloads to low-Earth orbit. The team is passionate about space access and operates out of a cutting-edge facility near Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

In this role, you’ll support the Head of Propulsion Engineering and lead technical strategy and execution across a range of upcoming propulsion projects. You’ll manage a multidisciplinary team, drive continuous improvement, and contribute directly to the future of Australia’s space ambitions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the technical direction of future propulsion programs and manage team resources.
• Oversee project execution in alignment with milestones and safety standards.
• Drive propulsion architecture decisions, design reviews, and system integration.
• Manage and mentor a high-performing team of propulsion engineers.
• Work closely with program management on budgets, schedules, and planning.
• Support subsystem testing, anomaly resolution, and flight readiness.
• Represent propulsion in internal and external forums.
• Contribute to long-term propulsion technology roadmaps.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering.
• 8+ years in propulsion engineering roles (post-graduate).
• Strong CAD (SolidWorks, CATIA, etc.) or FEA/Multiphysics analysis (ANSYS, NASTRAN, ABAQUS).
• Familiarity with ECSS, NASA, or military standards.
• Demonstrated ability to lead engineering teams and projects.

Eligibility

• Open to candidates currently based in the UK and Europe.
• Relocation assistance and visa sponsorship provided for successful applicants.
• Must be eligible to work in Australia (visa sponsorship support available).

Application Instructions
If you’re interested in relocating to Australia and contributing to a high-impact propulsion program, send your CV to jake.payne@newspacetechnical.com or click apply.