Space Craft Propulsion Systems Engineering Graduate

2026 Space Craft Propulsion Systems Engineering Graduate

Location: Harwell, Quad Two, United Kingdom

Start Date: 07 September 2026

Salary: £34,000 per annum

Employee type: Permanent

Working

Schedule:

Monday – Friday, 37 hours a week (8 hours Monday – Thursday, 5 hours Friday)

This graduate programme is a 3‑year opportunity within the Thales Alenia Space Engineering team, focused on the development of propulsion systems for spacecraft. The role will involve design, development, testing and analysis of advanced propulsion systems for space applications, providing exposure to cutting‑edge technology used in missions such as lunar landers, refuelling, science and exploration, and telecom satellites.

• Assist the design, development and analysis of propulsion subsystems for chemical and/or electric propulsion.
• Conduct engineering calculations, simulations and modelling for fluidic aspects relevant to propulsion hardware.
• Follow the development and delivery of equipment by suppliers such as valves, tanks and thrusters.
• Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams including mechanical, thermal, systems engineers and manufacturing.
• Prepare technical documentation, test reports and design reviews.
• Contribute to problem‑solving and design improvements based on test results and analysis.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, safety regulations and quality protocols.
• Keep up to date with new technologies and advancements in propulsion and mechanical engineering to support technology road‑maps.

Applicants must have or be on track to achieve a Bachelor’s degree in a STEM subject in one of the following areas:

• Aerospace Engineering
• Mechanical and Thermal Engineering for Aerospace
• Systems Engineering
• Physics
• Similar related subject/field

• 201 hours annual leave (plus a company day and bank holidays)
• Company Pension
• Health Care Cash Plan
• Life Insurance
• Discount Portal
• Performance‑related pay uplifts
• 80 Hours Volunteering (first two years)

Assessment centres for shortlisted candidates will be held between February and May 2026. Induction week will take place from Monday 07 September to Friday 11 September 2026.

Applications close  pm on Monday 5 January 2026. The role may close earlier if we receive a high number of applications.

This role requires Security Clearance (SC). It is advantageous to hold it already; otherwise the successful applicant will need to obtain SC clearance prior to commencing employment. Candidates must have permanent right to work in the UK and will be required to undergo Government security clearance at BPSS Level and full SC in line with UKSV requirements.

Thales is an equal opportunities employer. Diversity and inclusion are integral to the success of Thales. We provide inclusive and barrier‑free recruitment and reasonable adjustments for neuro‑diverse applicants or those with a disability.

Great journeys start here, apply now!