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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 Electronics Design Engineer

Design and develop high-integrity electronic controllers for aerospace environmental and life support systems, covering the full electronics lifecycle from concept to production. Work within a multidisciplinary team to deliver certified hardware compliant with stringent safety and regulatory standards, using rigorous design and verification processes. Support manufacturing integration and in-service technical issues while collaborating across engineering functions.

Team Jobs - Strategic Accounts Yeovil, Somerset, United Kingdom £72 ph
Hybrid Contract Clearance Required

CAD Engineer (Manufacturing/ Aerospace)

CAD Engineer (Manufacturing/ Aerospace)£32,000 - £40,000 + Full Specialist Training + Career Development + Further Qualifications + Overtime Opportunities + Performance Scheme + Life Insurance + Social Clubs + 33-Days Holiday + Work-Life Balance + 37.5 hour working weekSite Based,...

Rise Technical Recruitment Exeter, United Kingdom £37,000 – £40,000 pa

Production Engineer/Manager (Electronics/Aerospace/Defence)

This role involves overseeing production and manufacturing operations in a high-tech environment focused on electronics for aerospace and defence. The engineer will support new product introduction, implement design-for-manufacture and design-for-test processes, and act as a technical liaison between internal teams and customers. The position offers strong technical progression and involvement in innovative, quality-critical projects across multiple advanced sectors.

Ernest Gordon Recruitment Poynton, Cheshire, SK12 1GP, United Kingdom £50,000 – £60,000 pa
On-site Permanent Clearance Required
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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