Avionics Engineer Jobs

Design and develop the electronic systems that control spacecraft and satellites. A critical role in ensuring mission success and reliability.

Open roles
1
Salary range
£46k – £80k
Hiring companies
1

Avionics Engineers in the UK space sector play a vital role in the design, development, and testing of electronic systems that control spacecraft and satellites. These systems are essential for navigation, communication, and data processing, ensuring the success and reliability of space missions. Avionics Engineers work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including systems engineers, software developers, and scientists, to create cutting-edge solutions for space exploration and Earth observation.

What the role does

Inside the role of an Avionics Engineer

A typical week for an Avionics Engineer is a mix of design work, testing, and collaboration with other teams.

  1. 01
    Design and simulate electronic systems using CAD software.
  2. 02
    Conduct tests and analyses to ensure system reliability.
  3. 03
    Collaborate with software and systems engineers on integration.
  4. 04
    Document design processes and test results.
  5. 05
    Attend project meetings and provide technical updates.
  6. 06
    Stay updated with the latest advancements in avionics technology.
Salary on the board

£46k – £80k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 8 UK listings priced in pounds in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

Salary visibility
7% of listings advertise a salary — up from 0% the year before.
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 5 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

Avionics
60%
MATLAB
40%
Electronics
40%
Aerospace
40%
Aviation
40%
Diagnostic Tools
40%
Technical Manuals
40%
C/C++
20%
Simulink
20%
Hardware In the Loop
20%
AOCS
20%
FDIR
20%
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

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

  1. Level 1

    Junior Avionics Engineer

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in the design and testing of avionics systems, working under the guidance of senior engineers.

  2. Level 2

    Avionics Engineer

    2–5 yrs

    Take ownership of specific avionics subsystems, leading design and testing efforts.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Avionics Engineer

    5–10 yrs

    Lead complex avionics projects, mentor junior engineers, and ensure system integration.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Avionics Engineer

    10+ yrs

    Oversee multiple avionics projects, drive innovation, and provide strategic direction.

Pathway

How to become a Avionics Engineer

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

  1. 1

    Education and Entry

    Complete a degree in electrical or aerospace engineering. Gain relevant experience through internships or entry-level roles.

  2. 2

    Specialisation

    Focus on avionics systems, gaining expertise in areas like navigation, communication, and control systems.

  3. 3

    Project Leadership

    Take on leadership roles in avionics projects, managing teams and ensuring successful system integration.

  4. 4

    Advanced Roles

    Advance to senior and principal roles, driving innovation and strategic direction in avionics engineering.

  5. 5

    Industry Expert

    Become a recognised expert in the field, contributing to industry standards and mentoring the next generation of engineers.

Live jobs

1 live role

Lodestar Space

Avionics Hardware Engineer

Save job
  • London
  • £55,000 – £75,000 pa
  • Mid-level

Design, lay out, bring up and validate PCBs for high-speed digital avionics on autonomous spacecraft, owning subsystem architecture from concept through simulation to hardware testing and on-orbit readiness. Work hands-on with oscilloscopes, logic analysers and harness fabrication, collaborating with mechanical, systems and software teams on environmental qualification (EMC, vibration, thermal vacuum).

Linux · NVIDIA SoMs · FPGA +4

Clearance required 3 days ago
Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

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

FAQs

Common questions

  • A degree in electrical or aerospace engineering is typically required. Relevant experience and certifications can also be beneficial.

  • Strong technical skills in electronics, software, and systems engineering are essential. Problem-solving, teamwork, and project management skills are also important.

  • Working hours can vary, but they often follow a standard 9-to-5 schedule. Overtime may be required during critical project phases.

  • Career progression typically involves moving from junior to senior roles, then to principal and leadership positions. Continuous learning and specialisation are key.

  • Salaries can vary based on experience and location. For more detailed information, please refer to the salary section on this page.

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