Airbus Defence and Space Jobs: Careers in the UK Space Industry

1. Airbus Defence and Space: A Leader in UK Space Technology

1.1. What is Airbus Defence and Space?

Airbus Defence and Space is a division of Airbus, one of the world’s largest aerospace and defence companies. The division focuses on space technology, satellite systems, military aircraft, and defence solutions.

With over 134,000 employees globally, Airbus is a major player in the European space sector, supplying advanced satellite communications, Earth observation systems, and defence applications to governments, commercial clients, and space agencies—including the European Space Agency (ESA) and UK Space Agency.

In the UK, Airbus Defence and Space operates three major sites:

• Stevenage – Home to Airbus’ satellite manufacturing and spacecraft assembly facility

• Portsmouth – A centre for satellite communications and space engineering

• Newport – A hub for defence cybersecurity and encryption systems

With a strong presence in satellite development, space defence, and AI-powered space applications, Airbus offers a dynamic work environment for space professionals in the UK.

2. Airbus Defence and Space Projects in the UK

Airbus Defence and Space is involved in some of the most advanced space missions and satellite programs in the UK and beyond.

2.1. Satellite Communications and Earth Observation

Airbus Defence and Space designs, builds, and operates satellites for telecommunications, weather monitoring, and Earth observation. Key satellite programs include:

• Skynet 6 – The UK’s next-generation military satellite communications system

• Eutelsat Quantum – The world’s first fully reprogrammable commercial satellite

• Copernicus Sentinel Satellites – Earth observation satellites that monitor climate change and environmental data

These projects provide critical infrastructure for global communications, weather forecasting, and security applications.

2.2. Space Exploration and Robotics

Airbus is a key contractor for ESA missions, contributing to robotic exploration, space science, and deep-space missions. Key projects include:

• ExoMars Rover – The UK-built rover designed to search for life on Mars

• Ariane 6 Rocket Components – Airbus contributes to Europe’s next-generation launch vehicle

• Orion European Service Module – Airbus built the service module for NASA’s Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the Moon

By working on interplanetary exploration and cutting-edge space robotics, Airbus is playing a crucial role in the future of space exploration.

2.3. Military and Defence Space Systems

Airbus Defence and Space also develops high-security defence and intelligence satellites for military applications. This includes:

• Secure satellite communications for NATO and allied forces

• AI-driven space surveillance and threat detection systems

• Cybersecurity solutions to protect satellite networks

With the UK government investing heavily in space defence, Airbus is a major partner in developing secure military-grade satellite systems and space-based intelligence capabilities.

3. Why Work at Airbus Defence and Space?

Airbus Defence and Space offers some of the most exciting space career opportunities in the UK, particularly in aerospace engineering, satellite systems, AI, and space defence.

3.1. Cutting-Edge Space Technology

Employees at Airbus work on some of the most advanced satellite, AI, and aerospace technologies in the world, including:

• Satellite manufacturing and spacecraft integration

• AI-powered data analytics for Earth observation

• Hypersonic aircraft and space propulsion technologies

For those passionate about innovation in space technology, Airbus provides a high-tech, research-driven environment.

3.2. Career Growth and Global Opportunities

With a large international workforce and partnerships with ESA, NASA, and UK Space Agency, Airbus Defence and Space offers:

• Opportunities to work on international space missions

• Global mobility and career progression within Airbus Group

• Collaboration with top aerospace engineers and scientists

3.3. Competitive Salaries and Benefits

Airbus Defence and Space is known for offering competitive salaries and strong employee benefits, including:

• Competitive base salaries and performance bonuses

• Stock options and pension schemes

• Graduate programs and apprenticeships for early-career professionals

With investment in employee training and leadership development, Airbus offers long-term career prospects in the aerospace and space sectors.

4. Space Jobs at Airbus Defence and Space

Airbus Defence and Space hires professionals in engineering, data science, AI, cybersecurity, and project management. Here are some of the most in-demand roles:

4.1. Satellite Systems Engineer

Role Overview:
Designs and develops satellite payloads, communication systems, and spacecraft subsystems.

Required Skills:

• Aerospace or mechanical engineering background

• Experience in satellite architecture and mission planning

• Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, and spacecraft simulation tools

Salary Range:

• £45,000 – £80,000, depending on experience

4.2. AI and Data Scientist (Space Analytics)

Role Overview:
Develops AI models for space data processing, satellite imaging, and predictive analytics.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in machine learning, Python, and AI model development

• Experience with remote sensing and satellite imagery analysis

• Knowledge of big data platforms and cloud computing

Salary Range:

• £50,000 – £90,000, depending on experience

4.3. Space Cybersecurity Engineer

Role Overview:
Protects satellite networks and communication systems from cyber threats.

Required Skills:

• Expertise in encryption, secure communication protocols, and space cybersecurity

• Knowledge of satellite and military-grade defence systems

• Proficiency in ethical hacking, penetration testing, and cyber threat modelling

Salary Range:

• £60,000 – £100,000+, depending on experience

4.4. Space Mission Analyst

Role Overview:
Plans and monitors satellite missions, space operations, and orbital mechanics.

Required Skills:

• Background in astrodynamics and orbital mechanics

• Experience with mission planning software (STK, GMAT, or MATLAB)

• Knowledge of satellite propulsion and trajectory modelling

Salary Range:

• £55,000 – £85,000

5. How to Get a Job at Airbus Defence and Space

To secure a job at Airbus Defence and Space, follow these key steps:

5.1. Develop Expertise in Aerospace & Space Engineering

• Gain experience with satellite systems, AI for space, and cybersecurity

• Learn Python, MATLAB, and satellite simulation tools

5.2. Get Hands-On Space Experience

• Work on space-related university projects or internships

• Participate in ESA competitions and space hackathons

5.3. Apply and Network with Airbus Professionals

• Check Airbus’ careers page for open positions

• Connect with Airbus engineers and recruiters on LinkedIn

• Attend space industry events and UK Space Agency conferences

6. Conclusion: Space Careers at Airbus Defence and Space

Airbus Defence and Space is one of the UK’s top employers in the space sector, offering exciting careers in satellite engineering, AI, cybersecurity, and aerospace research.

To explore the latest Airbus Defence and Space jobs, visit www.ukspacejobs.co.uk today and apply for your next space career opportunity.