Design, build, and maintain the satellites that power global communications, Earth observation, and space science. A critical role in the UK's growing space sector.
Satellite engineers are at the heart of the UK's space industry, working on cutting-edge projects that range from communications and Earth observation to scientific research. These professionals design, build, and maintain the satellites that enable a wide array of applications, from weather forecasting to national security. They work in a variety of settings, including aerospace companies, research institutions, and government agencies, contributing to both commercial and scientific missions.
A typical week for a satellite engineer is a mix of design work, testing, and project management.
Based on advertised midpoints across the 8 UK listings priced in pounds in the last 12 months. Base salary only.
% of 11 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.
A typical UK progression for satellite engineers. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.
Assist in the design and testing of satellite systems, working under the guidance of more experienced engineers.
Take ownership of specific subsystems, manage small teams, and contribute to the overall design and integration of satellite systems.
Lead major projects, oversee the work of junior engineers, and ensure the successful delivery of complex satellite systems.
Provide strategic direction, lead large-scale projects, and act as a technical authority on satellite engineering within the organisation.
There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.
Complete a degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field. Gain foundational knowledge in satellite systems and space technology.
Start as a junior satellite engineer, working on design and testing under the supervision of more experienced colleagues.
Develop expertise in a specific area of satellite engineering, such as communications, propulsion, or thermal systems.
Take on leadership roles, managing projects and teams, and ensuring the successful delivery of satellite systems.
Become a recognised expert in satellite engineering, providing strategic direction and technical leadership within the organisation.
Contribute to industry standards and best practices, and influence the future of satellite technology through research and innovation.
Expert Employment
Design and integrate terrestrial and satellite communication networks, covering 5G, 6G and satellite-enabled connectivity. The role involves embedding telecoms components into hardware platforms, contributing to technical proposals, and collaborating with external businesses, universities and research organisations.
Linux · 5G · 6G
Expert Employment
Lead technical delivery of satellite and terrestrial communication projects, designing end-to-end cellular and satellite systems and developing practical solutions for end users. The role combines hands-on system integration, hardware setup and coding with technical consultancy, working alongside businesses, universities and research partners on emerging 5G, 6G and IoT technologies.
NewOrbit Space
Designs satellite mechanical hardware including secondary structures, thermal-control hardware, cable routing and mechanisms, while managing a large shared 3D CAD assembly using top-down design and skeleton models. Maintains PLM data, BOMs and change control, runs clash checks and produces GD&T manufacturing drawings, supporting PDR/CDR reviews, prototyping and environmental testing in a small multidisciplinary team.
SolidWorks · CATIA · NX +6
Foundational
Owns the full lifecycle of Satellite Laser Ranging and Space Debris Laser Ranging systems, from radiometric link-budget modelling and optical bench assembly to time-of-flight data processing and ground station deployment. Acts as laser safety subject matter expert and works across optical design, hardware integration and Python-based instrument control in a small startup team.
NumPy · SciPy · Pandas +7
Open Cosmos Ltd
Design and build processing chains that turn raw satellite data into calibrated, orthorectified, analysis-ready Earth Observation products. The role blends remote sensing, Python geospatial engineering and system integration, spanning payload definition, Cal/Val and scalable automated pipelines across multiple missions and sensors.
GDAL · rasterio · NumPy +1
Line Up Aviation
Develops and tests software for quantum key distribution payloads and ground segment systems on the QKDSat satellite programme, working with Java, C++ or Python in Agile cycles. The senior variant leads development, testing frameworks and CI/CD pipelines, coordinating with ESA and international partners. Roles span two levels on a security-critical, internationally collaborative space project.
QKD · OPS-SAT VOLT
The locations with the most live listings for this role today.
A degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field is typically required. Relevant internships and practical experience are also valuable.
Strong technical skills in areas like systems engineering, materials science, and thermal management are essential. Project management and teamwork skills are also important.
Working hours can vary, but they often follow a standard 9-to-5 schedule. However, project deadlines and testing phases may require longer hours.
Career progression typically involves moving from junior roles to senior and principal positions, with increasing responsibility and leadership. See the career pathway section for more details.
Salaries for satellite engineers can vary based on experience, location, and the specific role. For more detailed salary information, please refer to the salary section on this page.
Post your role in 90 seconds and reach the specialist audience that already reads this page.
