Turbomachinery Engineer

Darwin Space are partnering with a specialist space-sector business to recruit a Turbomachinery Engineer to support the development of advanced propulsion technology.

This role focuses on the design and performance optimisation of turbomachinery, combining mechanical engineering, fluid dynamics and computational modelling to develop high-performance propulsion components.

You’ll have the opportunity to take ownership of design activities, evaluate component performance through simulation and contribute to the development and testing of propulsion hardware. The team is open to different levels of experience, making this an opportunity for engineers looking to deepen their technical expertise or bring additional experience into a growing engineering environment.

The Role

• Lead and contribute to the mechanical design and development of turbomachinery components.

• Carry out fluid dynamics calculations and CFD simulations to assess performance and support design optimisation.

• Develop 3D CAD models and refine component designs based on engineering analysis.

• Apply numerical modelling techniques to evaluate operating conditions, component efficiency and overall system performance.

• Use Python and other computational tools to streamline calculations, automate workflows and process simulation data.

• Analyse engineering results, document technical findings and recommend design improvements.

• Work closely with propulsion and integration teams to ensure component designs meet wider system requirements.

• Support the planning and execution of test activities, using experimental data to validate simulations and inform future development.

• Contribute to engineering methods, technical standards and continuous improvement across the team.

What We’re Looking For

• A minimum of 3 years’ experience working within the space sector is essential. Candidates without this experience cannot be considered.

• A background in turbomachinery engineering, particularly the design and development of pumps, turbines or related rotating machinery.

• Strong understanding of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics and mechanical system performance.

• Experience with CFD tools and numerical simulation.

• Proficiency in 3D CAD modelling and mechanical component design.

• Knowledge of performance analysis and optimisation techniques.

• Experience using Python for engineering calculations, data processing or automation.

• A structured, analytical approach with the ability to work autonomously and take ownership of technical challenges.

Experience with rocket propulsion, launch vehicles or small-launcher programmes would be particularly relevant. Candidates with broader space-sector experience will also be considered where they can demonstrate strong, transferable turbomachinery expertise.

Location & Relocation

The position is based onsite, and relocation can be considered for suitable candidates. Applicants relocating from abroad must meet the minimum requirement of three years’ experience in the space sector.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

• Work directly on turbomachinery design within the space propulsion industry.

• Take ownership of technical challenges spanning mechanical design, simulation and performance optimisation.

• Join a growing engineering team where experienced engineers can contribute technical knowledge and support the development of wider team capabilities.

• Develop your expertise in advanced propulsion systems within a specialist space environment.

If you have at least three years of space-sector experience and a strong background in turbomachinery design, we’d be interested in discussing the opportunity with you.

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Alfie Walters