Senior Mechanical Engineer (Space Launch New Zealand), Christchurch

At Dawn Aerospace, we are redefining space access with scalable and sustainable solutions. Our spaceplane combines the power of a rocket with the reusability of an aircraft, enabling rapid, cost-effective launches. As a Senior Mechanical Engineer, you will play a key role in designing, analysing, and integrating flight hardware for our cutting-edge spaceplane. If you thrive in a fast-paced, high-performance engineering environment and are excited about solving complex aerospace challenges, this role is for you.Your Role Project Leadership&Coordination Take ownership of major airframe projects and work packages Collaborate across multi-functional teams to develop integrated solutions Work closely with suppliers, subcontractors, and external partners to ensure seamless execution Design, Analysis&Manufacturing Design, analyse, and test critical airframe components Lead design reviews, ensuring manufacturability and quality compliance Oversee procurement, manufacturing, assembly, and integration of mechanical systems Process Improvement&Compliance Produce compliance reports detailing hardware qualification Develop and enhance processes and capabilities to drive efficiency and innovation What You Bring Education&Experience Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field 5+ years of experience working on complex mechanical systems in aerospace, automotive, marine, or similar high-performance industries Technical Expertise Proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred)Experience in design for manufacture and optimizing designs for production Strong analytical skills with the ability to balance cost, schedule, performance, and risk Hands-on experience with mechanical manufacturing, assembly, and integration Awareness of quality control systems and aerospace standardsProject&Supplier Management Experience leading work packages and working across multi-disciplinary teams Ability to manage subcontractors and suppliers effectively Strong communication, organizational, and reporting skills Bonus Skills (Nice To Have, But Not Required) Composite design and manufacturing3D-printed design and production Project Engineering&Integrated Project Team Management Why Join Dawn Aerospace? Impact: Be part of a company that is shaping the future of sustainable spaceflight. Innovation: Work on cutting-edge technology that pushes the boundaries of aerospace engineering. Growth: Join a fast-growing, dynamic team with opportunities for professional development.Mission-Driven Culture: Work alongside passionate engineers and scientists solving real-world space challenges. Ready to Join Us? If you're passionate about pushing the boundaries of aerospace engineering, apply today and be part of our journey to redefine spaceflight! Apply for this Job Important! If you think you have what it takes but are unsure that you check every box, we still want to hear from you.Please note that due to our current customer base and the nature of our industry we are required to conduct background checks that are undertaken for security reasons. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that the Employee be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Under these Regulations, an employee may be ineligible for a role in our Dutch or New Zealand office if they do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union or a country that is part of NATO, or if they hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality.#J-18808-Ljbffr