Test Systems – Propulsion Test Engineer

Location: Belfast, United Kingdom

Thales people architect solutions that are relied upon to deliver operational advantage at every decisive moment throughout the mission. Defence and armed forces customers rely on us to deliver the full range of defensive systems for land, sea, and air. From early warning, to threat neutralisation, our platforms cover all levels from very short-range systems, to extended protection across the entire battle-space including Airspace Mobility Solutions, Vehicles and Tactical Systems and Missile Defence, Optronics, and Radar.

Together we offer fantastic opportunities for committed employees to learn and develop their career with us. At Thales UK, we research, develop, and supply technology and services that impact the lives of millions of people each day to make life better, and keep us safer. We innovate across the major industries of Aerospace, Defence, Security and Space. Your health and well-being matters to us and that’s why we offer you the flexibility to do what’s important to you; whether that’s part time hours, job sharing, home working, or the ability to flex your start and finish times. Where possible, we support a working pattern that suits your lifestyle and helps you reach your ambitions.

At Thales Belfast, we’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in space technology. In collaboration with Thales Alenia Space, we design and manufacture satellites and subsystems that power some of the world’s most ambitious space programmes.

We’re looking for a Propulsion Test Engineer to join our Test Systems Engineering Team, working on the design, development, and validation of propulsion test systems for our next‑generation spacecraft. You’ll play a key role in testing, qualifying, and ensuring the performance of satellite propulsion subsystems — helping shape the future of space exploration.

What you’ll do

• Plan, develop, and conduct pressure and fluidic tests on spacecraft propulsion systems.
• Support test system design, from concept through qualification and acceptance testing.
• Work closely with multi‑disciplinary teams in Operations, Mechanical, Electrical, and Systems Engineering.
• Deliver risk assessments (PSSR) and ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Maintain and improve test equipment and facilities.
• Report technical progress to programme management and customers.
• Provide hands‑on training and mentoring for operators and technicians.
• Take part in Test Readiness Reviews and customer technical boards.

What we’re looking for

Essential

• Experience in qualification and acceptance testing of engineered systems.
• Proven ability to develop test solutions and technical documentation.
• Comfortable analysing data and resolving technical issues.
• Knowledge of PLM/data management tools and configuration principles.
• Effective communicator with strong teamwork and initiative.

Desirable

• Experience with high‑pressure gas/fluid systems and Ground Support Equipment (GSE).
• Working knowledge of Pressure Systems Safety Regulations (PSSR).
• Exposure to aerospace or defence testing environments.

Qualifications

• BSc/BEng (Hons) in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related Engineering discipline, or
• HND with at least 5 years of relevant experience.
• (MEng or equivalent preferred.)

Why join us

At Thales, you’ll be part of a collaborative, innovative, and mission‑driven environment where every project contributes to something extraordinary. You’ll have opportunities to grow professionally, work with international partners, and see your work make a real impact — on Earth and beyond.

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In line with Thales' Baseline Security requirements, candidates will be asked to provide evidence of identity, eligibility to work in the UK and employment and/or education history for up to three years. Some vacancies may require full Security Clearance which can require further evidence to be provided. For further details of the evidence required to apply for Baseline and Security Clearance please refer to the Defence Business Services National Security Vetting (DBS NSV) Agency.

At Thales we provide CAREERS and not only jobs. With Thales employing 80,000 employees in 68 countries our mobility policy enables thousands of employees each year to develop their careers at home and abroad, in their existing areas of expertise or by branching out into new fields. Together we believe that embracing flexibility is a smarter way of working.

Thales UK is committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free recruitment process. We will provide reasonable adjustments and support to ensure neuro-diverse applicants or those with a disability or long-term condition can be their best during the recruitment process. To request an adjustment, if you need this job advert in an alternative format or if you have any questions about the recruitment process, please contact Resourcing Ops for mid to senior roles, or the Early Careers Team for graduate and apprentice roles.

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