Senior Scientist/Engineer

Gracefield, Lower Hutt, Wellington, New Zealand

(On-site)

Job Description

• Do you have a post graduate degree (MEng or PhD) in Engineering, or extensive post-graduate engineering experience or a post graduate Science degree (typically a PhD)?
• Have you got 10 years post PhD experience in the space or aeronautics industry or research environment?
• Are you looking for a permanent, full-time role?

Kōrero mō te tūranga - About the role

We are seeking a Senior Scientist/Engineer or Principal Scientist/Engineer to work on developing advanced technologies for space applications as part of the Paihau- Robinson Research Institute space team.

Our programme currently focuses on the applications of superconductors for space applications, especially the development of Applied-Field (AF)-Magnetoplasmadynamic (MPD) thrusters and re-entry heat shields. We are also developing a remote sensing capability, starting with the integration of advanced non-linear optical microwave sensors. We are open to expanding to new research areas based on the experience the successful applicant will bring to the team.

Ō pūmanawa - About you

Successful applicants will have:

• A post graduate degree (MEng or PhD) in Engineering or Science, or extensive post-graduate engineering experience.
• 10 years of experience in the space or aeronautics industry or research environment.
• Demonstrated history of writing successful research proposals.
• Experience leading technical teams and mentoring staff.
• Excellent technical skills including one or more of:
• Design, test, and qualification of space-flight hardware
• Electric propulsion
• Remote sensing
• Thermal, structural, electromagnetic, and/or computation fluid dynamics simulations
• Instrumentation and metrology
• Scientific programming and data analysis
• Cryogenic systems
• Vacuum systems

More senior applicants are encouraged to apply as the seniority of the role may be increased depending on the experience and background of the successful candidate.

Excellent technical skills including one or more of:

• Experience in mechanical design using Solidworks.
• Experience in mechanical and electrical prototyping, instrumentation or manufacturing process design.
• Engineering for cryogenic environments.
• Scientific programming and control using MatLab.
• Ability to manage complex engineering projects.

Role Description: [Click here to see further information, including salary details](https://vuw.sharepoint.com/:b:/s/VacancyRoleDescriptions/IQDitk4FHmtrSJiydE-HmzSPAbVyTtcUj8TuXhTpL-bEmx4?e=L8bpV7&download=1).

If this link is not available, click 'apply' to view this on the University career's page.

Close date for vacancy: 07 June 2026.

Contact details for vacancy: If you have any questions regarding this role, please get in touch with Jeannie Redman (jeannie.redman@vuw.ac.nz).

How to apply: Please ensure you are applying for this role directly on our career's page and not via email. When applying for this position, candidates must submit supporting documents along with their resume, such as a cover letter. Applicants who do not have residency or citizenship and require a visa to work at the University must clearly indicate their visa status in their application and understand that if they do not have a current, relevant visa, they will need to secure this independently.

Ētahi kōrero hai āwhina i a koe - Why you should join our team

Paihau - Robinson Research Institute has an international reputation for superconducting engineering, materials physics, and manufacturing engineering. We offer a unique opportunity for a high-achieving engineer to work alongside some of NZ’s top research scientists and engineers and contribute to a range of cutting-edge research projects that involve the development of new concepts in materials and manufacturing - from discovery science through to commercial implementation.

Mō Te Herenga Waka - About Our University

Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington is renowned for its high-quality research and exceptional teaching. We attract people from around the world. Our university campus spans Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington - the creative, scientific and political centre of Aotearoa New Zealand - and our students thrive on the connections we have made here.

Explore the many benefits of working at Te Herenga Waka - Victoria University of Wellington. Find out where you fit in our strategic direction and learn more about our research expertise.

Ētahi kōrero hai āwhina i a koe - Why you should join our team

Are you ready to push the boundaries of science and technology? Join Paihau - Robinson Research Institute! We’re pioneering high-temperature superconductivity and advanced technologies to revolutionise industries worldwide. Collaborate with top scientists and engineers in a dynamic, multicultural environment. Be part of groundbreaking research and make a real impact. Ready to shape the future? Apply now and embark on an exciting journey with us!

Apply Now

Job Info

• Job Identification 1008350
• Job Category Academic
• Posting Date 05/07/2026, 03:33 AM
• Apply Before 06/07/2026, 11:55 AM
• Job Schedule Full time
• Locations 69 Gracefield Road, Lower Hutt, 5010, NZ (On-site)