Development Engineer II (Aerospace)

Location: Auckland, New Zealand

Company

hirify.global is an end-to-end space company developing rockets, spacecraft, launch infrastructure, and critical aerospace subsystems.

What you will do

• Create and rapidly iterate CAD concepts for thermal protection systems and subassemblies on the Neutron launch vehicle.
• Design composite assemblies, material stack-ups, joints, seals, fasteners, and metallic interfaces in collaboration with analysis teams.
• Produce detailed drawing packages and assembly models while supporting design-for-manufacture with production teams.
• Maintain analysis tools and methods for one-dimensional and two-dimensional/three-dimensional thermal performance analysis.
• Develop test hardware, instrumentation, and test articles to validate components and correlate thermal models.
• Support qualification, manufacturing, integration, and technical collaboration across thermofluids and structures teams while mentoring junior engineers.

Requirements

• Degree or equivalent qualification in aerospace, mechanical, or mechatronic engineering.
• 2–4 years of experience designing high-performance mechanical or thermal systems.
• At least 2 years of experience with CAD software and modelling tools for mechanical and thermal design and analysis.
• Strong understanding of material science, thermodynamics, heat transfer, and aerodynamics, particularly their application to thermal protection systems.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines, with strong analytical, communication, teamwork, and decision-making skills.
• For New Zealand roles, nationality checks are required because the position involves access to equipment and data regulated by U.S. ITAR; eligibility may depend on citizenship and dual-nationality status.

Nice to have

• Advanced Python and MATLAB skills.
• Familiarity with CFD tools such as StarCCM, Ansys Fluent, or COMSOL.
• Experience with thermal testing, data acquisition, test hardware, test planning, trade studies, or material selection.
• Experience with composite or metallic structures, materials characterization, transient thermal modelling, high-temperature or insulative materials, or spacecraft and launch vehicles.
• Recent CAD portfolio submitted with the CV and cover letter.

Culture & Benefits

• Work on the development of the Neutron large launch vehicle and its launch and test infrastructure.
• Collaborate across design, analysis, manufacturing, thermofluids, structures, and production teams.
• Operate in a fast-paced environment focused on hands-on hardware development, technical ownership, teamwork, and tight delivery timelines.
• Contribute to meaningful space missions and next-generation aerospace technologies.