Join to apply for the Lead Systems Engineer role at MagdriveMagdrive is developing the next generation of spacecraft propulsion. Our thruster delivers an unparalleled combination of thrust and efficiency, opening new frontiers in satellite servicing, in-space construction, and interplanetary transport.We are seeking a Lead Systems Engineer to join our Product Team — a role essential to taking flight hardware through versioned in-orbit demos into a qualified product we can deliver at scale. Reporting directly to the CTO, you’ll ensure system-level integrity as we move from R&D prototypes to flight models and scale production to thousands of units per year.This role will be integral to the development of systems-level design and integration. You’ll work closely with R&D to inform Engineering Model (EM) builds, drive the qualification of Flight Models (FM), and establish rigorous standards of care, handling, and documentation for flight hardware.Beyond technical integration, you’ll collaborate with Business Development to ensure seamless customer system integration, aligning Magdrive’s technology with end-user requirements and paving the way for scaling from early flight heritage to large-scale deployment. As one of Magdrive’s early employees, you will hold significant responsibility with substantial potential for career growth. The systems you help shape will directly influence the Magdrive propulsion system’s evolution and have a tangible impact on the future of space travel.What you will be doingDefine, implement, and maintain the system architecture for flight hardware and ground support systemsOwn system-level requirements, interface control documents (ICDs), verification plans, and risk registerEnsure full traceability from customer needs to subsystem specifications and test casesIntegration & DeliveryPlan and oversee system integration across hardware, software, and test environmentsCollaborate with technical teams to ensure systems are buildable, testable, and deliverableSupport Product/Program teams with flight-readiness reviews and customer delivery milestonesProcess & ToolingDesign, implement, and maintain systems engineering tools and processes (e.g. MBSE, configuration control, gated reviews)Codify organisational knowledge into scalable workflowsCross-Functional CollaborationWork closely with Product, Program, and Engineering teams to align technical decisions with delivery goalsAct as a system-level technical interface with customers and external partnersServe as the technical interface and system owner with customers, ensuring needs are central to product developmentOversee integration with customer hardware and ensure compliance with technical requirementsCoordinate with Business Development to address ongoing customer requirementsTechnical ExecutionLead qualification, component integration, and manufacturing executionDefine technical requirements for EM and set quality test standardsManage the technical aspects of supply chain managementImplement processes and equipment to improve quality, delivery, and costWhat we are looking for5+ years’ experience in systems engineering and product delivery in aerospace/space (or other complex engineering domains), including 2+ years in a senior capacitySkilled at defining and managing system requirements and interfacesProven ability to plan and manage system integration and testingStrong problem-solving and trade-off decision-making skillsEffective communicator and collaborator across disciplinesDirect space domain experience (e.g. spacecraft, propulsion, or satellite systems)Experience with CAD (electrical and mechanical)Understanding of thermal and structural considerations for space systemsExperience in systems engineering for spacecraft and subsystemsDemonstrable experience with spacecraft chemical and electric propulsionWhat we offer25 days annual leave + bank holidays, plus long-service awards (up to 30 days)Flexible working hoursRemote working where possibleFinancial support for home office setupSeniority levelMid-Senior levelEmployment typeFull-timeJob functionInformation TechnologyIndustriesDefense & Space #J-18808-Ljbffr