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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
18
Salary range
£28k – £60k
Hiring companies
13
View 18 live roles → Get an alert

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

£28k – £60k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 16 priced listings posted in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

By seniority
£k base
Entry
28
40
4 jobs
Mid
35
60
3 jobs
Senior
50
60
3 jobs
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 15 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

Microsoft Office
27%
Aerospace Engineering
27%
Aerospace
27%
AS9102
20%
Quality Assurance
20%
Defence
20%
Manufacturing
20%
8D
13%
Engineering Drawings
13%
Aerodynamics
13%
Flight Mechanics
13%
SolidWorks
13%
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

18 live roles

See all 18 roles →

Aerospace Engineering Apprentice - Level 3

This apprenticeship offers hands-on experience in aerospace engineering, combining college-based training with real-world project support across manufacturing, design, quality, and technical functions. You'll develop practical skills in aircraft assembly, systems, and engineering data while working alongside experienced professionals on live programmes.

Expleo Chester, Cheshire, CH65 9HY, United Kingdom
On-site Clearance Required

Graduate Aerospace Engineer

This role involves supporting lead engineers in new product development and engineering projects within the aerospace sector. The graduate will assist with 3D CAD modelling, technical documentation, testing, and prototype validation while working closely with manufacturing and engineering teams. It offers structured training and hands-on experience to develop both technical and project management skills in a collaborative environment.

Euro Projects Recruitment Bridport, Dorset, United Kingdom £28,000 – £31,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent

Aerospace Senior Structural Design Engineer - Composite Wing Box - Shanghai, China

This role involves leading the design and development of composite wing box structures for a new civil aircraft program. The engineer will conduct in-depth research on structural components and drive product development within a supportive, internationally integrated aerospace team. The position emphasizes technical leadership and innovation in composite design while offering a balanced lifestyle in Shanghai with opportunities for regional exploration.

Strongfield Shanghai, China
On-site Contract

Senior Quality Engineer (Aerospace Precision Components)

The Senior Quality Engineer will lead quality assurance activities, manage a team of quality engineers, and ensure compliance with AS9100 and customer quality requirements. Key responsibilities include maintaining the QMS, supporting NPI, conducting root cause analysis, and managing supplier quality performance.

Seismic Recruitment Bitton, Gloucestershire, BS30 6HE, United Kingdom £45,000 – £50,000 pa
On-site Permanent

Senior Embedded Software Engineer - Aerospace

Senior Embedded Software Engineer - AerospaceOur Client, a pioneering leader in the aerospace technology sector, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Embedded Software Engineer to join their innovative team. Operating within a fast-paced and highly specialised industry, they are committed...

IO Bristol, Bristol (county), United Kingdom £55,000 – £60,000 pa

Senior Embedded Software Engineer - Aerospace

Senior Embedded Software Engineer - AerospaceOur Client, a pioneering leader in the aerospace technology sector, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Embedded Software Engineer to join their innovative team. Operating within a fast-paced and highly specialised industry, they are committed...

IO Box Makers Yard, Bristol (county), United Kingdom £55,000 – £60,000 pa

Graduate CNC Machinist (Motorsport / Aerospace Engineering)

This role involves setting, operating, and programming 5-axis CNC mills and lathes to produce high-precision components for aerospace, defence, and robotics industries. As one of the senior machinists in a newly established UK factory, you'll train junior operatives, contribute to business strategy, and work on advanced manufacturing projects in a collaborative workshop environment. The position offers technical autonomy and leadership responsibilities within a growing international company.

Ernest Gordon Recruitment Lambeth, London, SE1 7JW, United Kingdom £28,000 – £38,000 pa
On-site Permanent Clearance Required

Aerospace Quality Engineer

This role involves conducting First Article Inspections and patrol inspections in a safety-critical aerospace manufacturing environment. Responsibilities include planning and executing inspections, creating audit reports, and maintaining quality records. The position is hands-on and requires a strong understanding of AS9100 and AS9102 standards.

Recruit Engineering Denham, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom £38,000 – £39,000 pa
On-site Permanent
See all 18 roles →
Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

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

Manchester

Location
1 open

Bristol

Location
1 open
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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