Internship and Placement Opportunities in the UK Space Sector 2024/25
The UK space sector is one of the most dynamic and rapidly growing industries in the country, offering a wide range of career opportunities for those passionate about space exploration, satellite technology, and the future of space travel. As the industry expands, so does the demand for fresh talent, particularly in the form of internships and placements that provide invaluable experience and a crucial foot in the door for aspiring space professionals.
Internships and placements offer students and graduates the chance to gain hands-on experience in the field, work alongside industry experts, and contribute to real-world projects that push the boundaries of our understanding of space. In this article, we'll explore some of the leading employers in the UK space sector that offer internships and placements, detailing what they offer, when, and where these opportunities are available.
What Degrees Do Employers Look For?
When it comes to securing an internship or placement in the UK space sector, your educational background is a key factor. Most employers in this industry are looking for candidates with degrees in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects. However, there are also opportunities for those with degrees in business, law, and other fields, depending on the role.
Here are some of the most sought-after degrees in the UK space sector:
Aerospace Engineering: Ideal for roles in satellite design, propulsion systems, and spacecraft development.
Mechanical Engineering: Valued for positions involving the design and testing of space equipment and structures.
Electrical and Electronic Engineering: Crucial for jobs related to satellite systems, communication technologies, and instrumentation.
Computer Science and Software Engineering: Essential for roles in software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity within the space sector.
Physics and Astrophysics: Highly regarded for research and development positions, particularly those involving space exploration and satellite technology.
Mathematics and Applied Mathematics: Important for roles in mission planning, trajectory analysis, and complex system modelling.
Geography and Environmental Science: Beneficial for Earth observation, geospatial analysis, and climate monitoring roles.
Business and Management: Useful for positions in project management, business development, and strategy within space organisations.
Law: Relevant for roles in space policy, regulation, and intellectual property rights.
While a relevant degree is important, many employers also value practical experience, problem-solving skills, and a genuine passion for the space industry.
Top 20 UK Space Sector Employers Offering Internships and Placements in 2024/25
1. Airbus Defence and Space
Location: Stevenage, Portsmouth, Newport
Programmes: Airbus offers a wide range of internships across engineering, project management, and IT disciplines. Their placements are typically 3 to 12 months long and provide students with the opportunity to work on real satellite projects and cutting-edge technology.
Application Period: November to February
2. Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL)
Location: Guildford
Programmes: SSTL offers summer internships and year-long placements for undergraduates. These programmes provide practical experience in satellite engineering, systems engineering, and mission design.
Application Period: December to March
3. Lockheed Martin UK
Location: London, Ampthill
Programmes: Lockheed Martin offers internships in various fields such as aerospace engineering, cybersecurity, and software development. The company also provides placement opportunities that last between 6 and 12 months.
Application Period: September to February
4. Reaction Engines
Location: Abingdon, Oxfordshire
Programmes: Specialising in innovative aerospace propulsion systems, Reaction Engines offers internships that provide experience in engineering, R&D, and project management. Their placements are designed for both undergraduates and postgraduates.
Application Period: January to April
5. Inmarsat
Location: London
Programmes: Inmarsat, a leading provider of global mobile satellite communications, offers summer internships and industrial placements in areas such as satellite operations, software engineering, and business development.
Application Period: December to March
6. Thales Alenia Space UK
Location: Harwell, Oxfordshire
Programmes: Thales Alenia Space UK offers internships and placements focusing on satellite systems, space exploration, and communications technology. These opportunities are ideal for students pursuing degrees in engineering and physics.
Application Period: November to March
7. RHEA Group
Location: Leatherhead, Surrey
Programmes: RHEA Group provides internships and placements in satellite systems engineering, cybersecurity, and space mission analysis. These placements are generally available for a duration of 6 to 12 months.
Application Period: January to May
8. UK Space Agency
Location: Swindon, London
Programmes: The UK Space Agency offers a limited number of internships in policy, strategy, and communications. These internships are highly competitive and provide a unique insight into the workings of a government agency in the space sector.
Application Period: January to April
9. OneWeb
Location: London
Programmes: OneWeb, known for its low Earth orbit satellite constellation, offers internships in satellite engineering, systems engineering, and telecommunications. Their programmes are designed for students looking to gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced environment.
Application Period: February to May
10. Planet
Location: London
Programmes: Planet offers internships that provide experience in Earth observation, satellite data analysis, and geospatial intelligence. These opportunities are particularly suitable for students in environmental science, geography, and data science.
Application Period: November to February
11. CGI
Location: London, Reading, Leatherhead
Programmes: CGI offers internships and placements in software development, space mission planning, and systems engineering. These positions are available for both undergraduates and graduates, typically lasting between 6 and 12 months.
Application Period: October to January
12. BAE Systems
Location: Various locations across the UK
Programmes: BAE Systems provides a range of internships and placements in aerospace engineering, cybersecurity, and project management. Their programmes offer the chance to work on cutting-edge defence and space technology projects.
Application Period: September to January
13. QinetiQ
Location: Farnborough, Malvern, Bristol
Programmes: QinetiQ offers internships and placements in areas such as systems engineering, aerospace research, and space exploration technologies. Their programmes are designed for students who are passionate about innovation and technology.
Application Period: November to February
14. Satellite Applications Catapult
Location: Harwell, Oxfordshire
Programmes: The Satellite Applications Catapult offers internships and placements that focus on the commercialisation of satellite technologies. These opportunities are ideal for students interested in business development, innovation management, and technical research.
Application Period: January to April
15. Magellium Ltd
Location: Harwell, Oxfordshire
Programmes: Magellium Ltd specialises in geospatial information systems and offers internships in satellite data processing, Earth observation, and software development. Their programmes are typically available for 6 to 12 months.
Application Period: November to February
16. Oxford Space Systems
Location: Harwell, Oxfordshire
Programmes: Oxford Space Systems offers internships in mechanical engineering, materials science, and satellite technology. Their placements provide hands-on experience with innovative deployable space structures.
Application Period: January to March
17. Astroscale UK
Location: Harwell, Oxfordshire
Programmes: Astroscale is dedicated to the sustainable use of space, offering internships in satellite mission design, space debris removal, and systems engineering. Their internships typically last for 6 to 12 months.
Application Period: December to March
18. Deimos Space UK
Location: Harwell, Oxfordshire
Programmes: Deimos Space UK provides internships and placements in satellite mission analysis, Earth observation, and space systems engineering. These opportunities are available for both undergraduates and postgraduates.
Application Period: November to March
19. Skyrora
Location: Edinburgh
Programmes: Skyrora offers internships in rocket engineering, propulsion systems, and space launch services. Their placements provide a unique opportunity to work with a company focused on developing small satellite launch capabilities.
Application Period: January to April
20. D-Orbit UK
Location: Harwell, Oxfordshire
Programmes: D-Orbit UK specialises in in-orbit transportation and offers internships in space mission planning, satellite systems engineering, and aerospace project management. These internships are typically available for 6 to 12 months.
Application Period: December to March
Conclusion
The UK space sector offers a diverse array of internship and placement opportunities for students and graduates eager to embark on a career in this exciting industry. From engineering and satellite technology to business development and project management, there is a wealth of options available to suit a wide range of interests and career aspirations.
These internships and placements not only provide invaluable hands-on experience but also the chance to network with industry professionals, work on groundbreaking projects, and contribute to the future of space exploration. Whether you're interested in working with satellites, rockets, or space policy, the UK space sector has something to offer.
As the space industry continues to grow, so too does the need for fresh talent. Internships and placements are a critical pathway into this vibrant field, offering a stepping stone to a fulfilling and dynamic career. If you're passionate about space and eager to make your mark in this industry, now is the time to explore these opportunities and start your journey into the final frontier.
Final Tips for Applying
Research the Company: Understand the company's mission, values, and recent projects. Tailor your application to demonstrate how you can contribute to their goals.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Whether it’s engineering, data analysis, or project management, make sure to emphasise the skills that align with the position.
Gain Relevant Experience: Prior experience, even in related fields like IT, engineering, or research, can strengthen your application.
Network: Attend industry events, join space-related forums, and connect with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn to increase your chances of success.
Apply Early: Many of these programmes are competitive, so ensure you submit your application as soon as possible.
With these tips in mind and a wide range of opportunities available, you're well on your way to securing an exciting internship or placement in the UK space sector. Best of luck!
