Aerospace Engineer Jobs

Design and develop the cutting-edge technologies that power our space missions. From launch vehicles to satellites, aerospace engineers are at the heart of the UK's space sector.

Open roles
14
Salary range
£30k – £60k
Hiring companies
13

Aerospace engineers in the UK space sector are responsible for designing, developing, and testing the technologies that enable us to explore and utilise space. Whether you're working on launch vehicles, satellites, or space stations, your role is crucial in advancing our understanding of the cosmos and developing practical applications for Earth observation, communication, and navigation. Companies ranging from established aerospace giants to innovative scaleups rely on aerospace engineers to bring their ambitious projects to life.

What the role does

Inside the role of an Aerospace Engineer

A typical week for an aerospace engineer is a mix of design work, testing, and collaboration with cross-functional teams.

  1. 01
    Conducting simulations and analyses to optimise spacecraft design.
  2. 02
    Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to solve complex engineering challenges.
  3. 03
    Reviewing and updating technical documentation and reports.
  4. 04
    Participating in design reviews and project meetings.
  5. 05
    Performing tests and analyses to ensure system reliability.
  6. 06
    Documenting findings and presenting results to stakeholders.
Salary on the board

£30k – £60k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 10 priced listings posted in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

By seniority
£k base
Entry
30
35
1 job
Mid
35
60
8 jobs
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 1 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

AS9100
100%
ISO 13485
100%
ISO 9001
100%
FDA
100%
AS9102
100%
8D
100%
5 Whys
100%
IQ
100%
OQ
100%
PQ
100%
Lean
100%
Six Sigma
100%
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for aerospace engineers. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior Aerospace Engineer

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in the design and testing of aerospace systems, working under the guidance of more experienced engineers.

  2. Level 2

    Aerospace Engineer

    2–5 yrs

    Take ownership of specific subsystems or components, leading design and testing efforts within a project.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Aerospace Engineer

    5–10 yrs

    Lead major projects, manage teams, and provide technical expertise across multiple areas of aerospace engineering.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Aerospace Engineer

    10+ yrs

    Serve as a technical authority, driving innovation and strategic direction for complex aerospace programmes.

Pathway

How to become a Aerospace Engineer

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Entry-Level Engineer

    Start your career with hands-on experience in design and testing, learning from experienced mentors.

  2. 2

    Specialisation

    Develop expertise in a specific area of aerospace engineering, such as propulsion or structural analysis.

  3. 3

    Project Leadership

    Take on leadership roles, managing teams and overseeing the development of aerospace systems.

  4. 4

    Technical Authority

    Become a recognised expert, providing strategic guidance and driving innovation in the field.

  5. 5

    Strategic Management

    Move into senior management, shaping the direction of the company and the industry.

Live jobs

14 live roles

See all 14 roles

Aerospace Propulsion Engineer

This role involves supporting Aerospace Propulsion programs by conducting assembly and component analysis, preparing bid and proposal documents, and participating in Change Review Board meetings. You will also support the creation of detailed IRAD plans and continuous improvement projects, working closely with a team focused on advanced materials and propulsion systems.

Expert Employment Westcott, Buckinghamshire, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom £36,000 – £52,000 pa
On-site Permanent Clearance Required
ECM Selection logo

Graduate Aerospace Modelling Engineer

This role involves modelling complex aerospace scenarios using computational physics to advance technologies in space, maritime, and defence. You will work on high-temperature, high-pressure, and high-velocity simulations, identify artifacts in data, and communicate results to clients and stakeholders.

ECM Selection United Kingdom £30,000 – £35,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent Clearance Required

Senior Design Engineer - Aerospace

Senior Design Engineer - AerospaceLocation: Gloucestershire (Hybrid - typically 3 days on site once settled)Contract Duration: initial 6months with potential of extensionStart Date: As soon as possibleWorking Hours: 37 hours per week (Monday-Friday, with early finish Fridays)Pay Rates (PAYE):£35-£38 per...

Matchtech Gloucester, Gloucestershire, United Kingdom £35 – £38 ph
Hybrid Contract

Senior Project Managers - Aerospace Engineering

This role involves leading complex aerospace engineering projects, ensuring alignment with performance, cost, quality, and schedule objectives. Responsibilities include managing cross-functional teams, maintaining project schedules, and driving continuous improvement in project management practices.

Matchtech Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom

Aerospace Compliance Engineer

MPI are currently recruiting for a Compliance Engineer for our client based in Stansted Airport. This is a permanent role.The salary will be discussed on application and is dependant on experienceThis role is Monday to Friday 08.00 to 16.30JOB PURPOSEReporting...

MPI Limited Stansted Mountfitchet, Essex, United Kingdom

Manufacturing Engineer Aerospace

The Manufacturing Engineer will be responsible for the technical ownership of the manufacturing process, including tooling design, documentation, and hands-on support for assembly. They will work with 3D CAD, 2D drafting, and ensure compliance with DFM, DOE, FMEA, and PHA. The role involves maintaining equipment, coordinating with the maintenance team, and performing validation and process engineering evaluations.

Expert Employment Westcott, Buckinghamshire, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom £35,000 – £45,000 pa
On-site Permanent Clearance Required

Supplier Transfer Engineer – Aerospace

The Supplier Transfer Engineer role involves managing the safe and compliant transfer of products between suppliers, ensuring business continuity in complex supply chains. Responsibilities include developing work transfer plans, coordinating cross-functional teams, reviewing technical drawings, conducting supplier visits, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. The role requires a methodical approach, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure.

Recruit Engineering Denham, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom £45,000 – £55,000 pa
On-site Permanent Clearance Required

Quality Engineer (Aerospace)

This role involves supporting APQP activities, managing PPAP documentation, and working closely with cross-functional teams to drive continuous improvement and ensure zero defects in new and existing aerospace programmes. The Quality Engineer will also investigate non-conformances, support audits, and embed customer requirements in manufacturing processes.

THOMAS Professional Montpellier, Gloucestershire, GL50 1SD, United Kingdom £40,000 – £50,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent
Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

The locations with the most live listings for this role today.

FAQs

Common questions

  • Aerospace engineers work on a wide range of projects, including designing and testing spacecraft, satellites, launch vehicles, and space stations. They also develop technologies for Earth observation, communication, and navigation systems.

  • Essential skills include strong mathematical and analytical abilities, proficiency in CAD software, and a deep understanding of aerodynamics, materials science, and systems engineering. Effective communication and teamwork are also crucial.

  • Working hours can vary, but aerospace engineers often work standard office hours. However, project deadlines and testing phases may require occasional overtime or flexible scheduling.

  • Career progression typically starts with entry-level roles, moves through specialisation and project leadership, and culminates in technical authority and strategic management positions. Each step involves increasing responsibility and expertise.

  • Salary ranges can vary based on experience, location, and specific role. For detailed salary information, please refer to the salary section on this page.

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