Oxford Space Systems Jobs: Driving the Next Generation of Space Structures and Technology

1. Introduction: Why Oxford Space Systems?

Founded in 2013, Oxford Space Systems is building a reputation for advanced, patent-protected deployable space structures. From antennas and solar arrays to booms and reflectors, OSS’s technology emphasises:

• Lightweight but robust materials

• Compact stowage for minimal volume on launch

• Reliable, frictionless deployment once in orbit

• Cost-effectiveness for the modern commercial and governmental space market

With an ambition to be the “go-to” provider for new space structural solutions, OSS invests heavily in materials R&D, engineering automation, and iterative prototyping. This means that employees at OSS are immersed in real engineering challenges, from composite structure design to thermal analysis, advanced simulations, or flight qualification testing.

Working at Oxford Space Systems can appeal to space engineers who want hands-on involvement in building and validating hardware that directly impacts satellite missions and can significantly reduce cost, risk, and mass budgets. Moreover, the company’s emphasis on cutting-edge R&D fosters a dynamic environment for professionals seeking to shape the future of deployable space systems.

2. A Quick History of Oxford Space Systems

2.1 Early Days in Harwell

OSS’s journey is closely tied to the Harwell Space Cluster in Oxfordshire, a thriving community of space-focused businesses, research labs, and agencies. By situating itself at Harwell, OSS benefits from synergy with nearby institutions like the STFC RAL Space (Rutherford Appleton Laboratory), the European Space Agency (ESA) facilities, and many other innovative start-ups. This access to a robust ecosystem helped accelerate initial R&D, secure early funding, and attract top aerospace talent.

2.2 Rapid Growth and Recognition

Over the last decade, OSS progressed from small-scale prototypes to flight-ready hardware, securing multiple commercial and governmental contracts. In 2018, they broke ground by launching their AstroTube™ Boom on a Cubesat demonstration mission, showcasing how advanced materials and frictionless design could yield a highly reliable structure that’s both stowable and easy to deploy in orbit. Since then, OSS has expanded its portfolio to reflectors, large antennas, and other deployable products. The firm also garnered recognition in UK and international space communities through design awards, investment backing, and strategic partnerships.

2.3 Vision and Mission

Oxford Space Systems envisions transforming the space hardware supply chain, enabling satellites to carry bigger antennas, booms, or other extended structures without incurring massive launch costs or reliability risks. With the proliferation of small satellite constellations, Earth observation missions, and deep-space exploration initiatives, there’s an ever-growing market for novel deployable solutions. OSS aims to become a global leader in this niche, building highly engineered systems at cost points that make them attractive to both big primes and agile New Space companies.

3. Why Work at Oxford Space Systems in the Space Domain?

Oxford Space Systems merges the agility of a scale-up with the rigour typical of space engineering. Professionals joining OSS can expect:

1. Hands-On Innovation: As a smaller, fast-moving enterprise than aerospace primes, staff can deeply participate in conceptual design, hardware builds, and flight qualification. This fosters a sense of ownership and immediate impact.

2. Diverse Engineering Challenges: UAV-like booms, high-gain reflectors, thermal constraints, advanced materials—OSS’s product lines are varied, ensuring engineers, software developers, or test specialists encounter new challenges with each project.

3. Close-Knit Environment: With fewer hierarchical barriers, teams often collaborate intensively across mechanical, electrical, test, business, and mission functions. This environment can yield rapid decision-making, innovative thinking, and a supportive culture.

4. Career Advancement and Recognition: OSS invests in staff training, hosts knowledge-sharing sessions, and encourages initiative. High-performing employees might quickly progress into technical leadership or programme management roles.

5. Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations with ESA, the UK Space Agency, large primes, or NASA affiliates can open global career networks and help employees stay at the cutting edge of spaceflight technology.

With the UK’s space sector continuing to boom—particularly in smallsat production, advanced manufacturing, and mission services—Oxford Space Systems positions itself as a compelling employer offering robust engineering experiences and mission-critical responsibilities.

4. Types of Jobs at Oxford Space Systems

Working at OSS typically revolves around design, manufacturing, testing, and business roles integral to producing flight-ready hardware. Below are typical categories:

4.1 Mechanical / Structural Engineer (Deployable Systems)

Focus: Designing, analysing, and validating the mechanical aspects of stowable booms, reflectors, and structural components that must survive launch loads and function reliably in orbit.

Duties:

• Develop 3D CAD models, run FEA or multi-body simulations.

• Select and test advanced materials (composites, shape memory alloys, etc.).

• Collaborate with manufacturing to refine assembly processes, ensure quality.

• Conduct environmental tests (thermal-vacuum, vibration, shock) to confirm flight readiness.

Skills:

• Background in aerospace/mechanical engineering.

• Proficiency with CAD tools (SolidWorks, CATIA, or NX) and FEA software (ANSYS, Abaqus).

• Familiarity with space environment constraints, rapid prototyping, advanced composites.

4.2 Materials / Composites Specialist

Focus: Innovating in composite or novel material solutions (like shape memory polymers, carbon fibre hybrids) to reduce mass, stow volumes, and enhance reliability.

Duties:

• Researching, developing, and testing new high-strength, lightweight materials.

• Managing relationships with suppliers or academic labs for unique material formulations.

• Creating test procedures to measure mechanical/thermal properties and stow-ability.

Skills:

• Degree or PhD in materials science, chemistry, or mechanical engineering with emphasis on composites.

• Experience in laminate design, adhesives, vacuum bagging, or resin infusion.

• Familiarity with outgassing requirements, space environment testing (radiation, extreme temperatures).

4.3 Test and Validation Engineer

Focus: Overseeing the entire test lifecycle for flight hardware—proto-qualification, acceptance testing, and final sign-off for flight readiness.

Duties:

• Drafting test plans that replicate launch and in-orbit conditions (vibration, thermal cycling, shock, microgravity).

• Managing test rigs, sensors, data acquisition, and post-test analysis.

• Identifying anomalies, collaborating with design engineers on corrective measures.

Skills:

• Knowledge of test equipment (shakers, thermal chambers), instrumentation, data logging.

• Adherence to industry standards (ECSS for ESA, NASA guidelines).

• Strong organisational and troubleshooting abilities.

4.4 Electronics / Avionics Engineer

Focus: Developing and integrating control electronics, sensors, wiring harnesses, or power management systems that drive the deployment of mechanical structures or gather telemetry.

Duties:

• Designing PCBs or embedded systems that coordinate deployment sequences, gather sensor data (position, strain, temperature).

• Ensuring robust command and data handling (CDH) to handle potential single-event upsets or electromagnetic interference in space.

• Working with flight software teams to align hardware interfaces.

Skills:

• Experience in embedded C/C++, FPGA/SoC design, or microcontroller-based boards.

• Familiarity with radiation-hardened or rad-tolerant electronic components.

• Understanding of space power systems, communication protocols (CAN bus, RS-422, or SpaceWire).

4.5 Software / Simulation Engineer

Focus: Building software for simulation, control, or mission planning. Could also cover data analysis from test benches or in-orbit telemetry.

Duties:

• Implementing simulation frameworks for mechanical deployment, thermal behaviour, or orbital dynamics.

• Setting up test data pipelines, writing code to visualise or post-process sensor outputs.

• Possibly building custom in-house software for design automation or integrated mission analysis.

Skills:

• Proficiency with Python, MATLAB, or C++ for scientific computing.

• Familiarity with software engineering best practices (version control, code reviews).

• Possibly knowledge of flight software or real-time OS for mission-critical tasks.

4.6 Project Manager / Programme Lead

Focus: Overseeing multi-stakeholder UAV structure development, ensuring timelines, budgets, design reviews, and compliance with ESA or other standards.

Duties:

• Coordinating cross-functional teams from design to test.

• Managing risk, interfacing with internal and external stakeholders (customers, suppliers).

• Reporting progress to upper management, shaping project strategy, maintaining documentation.

Skills:

• Project management methodologies (Prince2, PMP, or agile frameworks)

• Understanding engineering cycles, supply chain dynamics, and regulatory nuances

• Strong communication, leadership, conflict resolution

4.7 Business Development / Marketing

Focus: Driving commercial success, forging new deals with satellite primes, space agencies, or integrators who need advanced deployable solutions.

Duties:

• Networking with potential clients, attending space conferences, showcasing technology.

• Negotiating contracts, drafting proposals, ensuring alignment with product roadmaps.

• Providing market intelligence for future product lines, competitor analysis.

Skills:

• Technical knowledge of space hardware, ability to articulate business ROI.

• Relationship-building, contract negotiation, marketing strategy.

5. Skills & Qualifications Valued at Oxford Space Systems

Though each role has unique requirements, there are common themes across OSS:

1. Aerospace / Mechanical / Materials Background

   • For design, test, or R&D roles, degrees in mechanical/aerospace engineering, physics, or materials science are typically sought. Understanding composites and space environment constraints is a big plus.

2. Space Industry Familiarity

   • Knowledge of ESA, NASA, or commercial space standards, from mechanical design codes (ECSS) to flight qualification processes.

   • Experience with new space or smallsat missions is particularly relevant.

3. Hands-On Prototyping

   • At a scale-up, staff are often expected to pivot from CAD design to real hardware testing. An appetite for working with lab or workshop equipment is essential.

4. Collaboration & Communication

   • With multiple projects in parallel, cross-functional synergy is vital. Staff must present designs, talk with suppliers, or interpret test results collaboratively.

5. Adaptability and Initiative

   • OSS’s environment can be dynamic. Team members who take ownership, propose improvements, and adapt solutions quickly stand out.

6. Clearances / Eligibility

   • Depending on role, especially if handling sensitive export controls or defence-related elements, UK or EU nationality/residency requirements might apply.

6. Salary Expectations at Oxford Space Systems

As a scale-up in the advanced space hardware realm, Oxford Space Systems offers competitive salaries, though they may differ from bigger aerospace primes. Approximate UK-based ranges might be:

1. Graduate / Entry-Level

   • ~£28,000–£35,000 base for engineering or test roles

2. Early-to-Mid Career (3–5 years experience)

   • ~£35,000–£50,000 base, with potential bonus or equity incentives

3. Senior / Lead Engineers

   • ~£50,000–£70,000 base, possibly higher if managing large programmes

4. Management / Programme Lead

   • ~£70,000–£90,000+ base, subject to experience, plus performance-based bonuses

Other perks can include private health cover, share options, flexible hours, and training budgets, reinforcing employee commitment and professional development. Being part of an innovative environment can also offer intangible benefits—like seeing your designs go into orbit.

7. How to Apply for Oxford Space Systems Jobs

7.1 OSS Careers Page

Start by checking the Oxford Space Systems official website or job boards. They sometimes list vacancies for mechanical engineers, test specialists, or business roles under “Careers” or “Join Us.” Keep an eye on the UK space sector portals, as roles at scale-ups can appear sporadically.

7.2 Tailoring Your CV & Portfolio

• Project-based Summaries: Highlight your roles in relevant aerospace or mechanical projects—like flight hardware, structural simulations, composite research, or space instrumentation.

• Hands-on Achievements: If you’ve previously worked with deployable structures, mention it. Summaries of major achievements or published papers are valuable.

• Proto-Lab or Manufacturing: For those with experience in rapid prototyping, CNC machining, additive manufacturing for aerospace, emphasise how you integrated design with physical builds.

7.3 Technical Interviews & Culture Fit

Expect multiple interview stages:

• Introductory Chat: A broad conversation about your background, interest in space hardware, and OSS’s mission. Possibly includes HR or team leads.

• Technical Round: Likely diving into engineering fundamentals—structural design, FEA, thermal constraints, mechanical properties of composites, or relevant domain knowledge. Could involve a problem-solving exercise or case study.

• Behavioural / Cultural Round: Checking synergy with OSS’s collaborative, innovative environment. Demonstrate adaptability, initiative, and your experience in small teams.

7.4 Show Enthusiasm for Space Structures

Given OSS’s unique focus, emphasise your passion for spacecraft or new space engineering. If you have personal projects—like model rocket clubs, university satellite teams, or mechanical design competitions—talk about them. Show how you overcame real-world engineering constraints. Enthusiasm for problem-solving in microgravity or vacuum environments can leave a strong impression.

8. Future Trends for Oxford Space Systems

Looking ahead, OSS is poised to expand capabilities as the space ecosystem booms, particularly:

1. Scaling Production: With the smallsat constellations’ growth, demand for cost-effective, mass-produced deployable systems may skyrocket. OSS might scale from small batch production to full industrial lines, creating new manufacturing and supply-chain roles.

2. Large Reflectors and Radar: Earth observation satellites increasingly require bigger antennas or radar reflectors to enhance resolution. OSS’s flexible deployables could push it to the forefront of advanced satellite imaging.

3. Deep-Space Missions: Exploratory or planetary science missions often require booms and arrays that operate under harsh environmental extremes. OSS’s technology could adapt to these markets, collaborating with ESA or NASA for future planetary or lunar projects.

4. Military and Secure Government Payloads: Some defence satellites rely on large antennas or advanced sensor booms. Partnerships with major primes or direct MoD involvement can expand OSS’s portfolio, albeit with specific security constraints.

Hence, staff at OSS can expect to see expanding product lines, deeper R&D in materials, new test protocols, and a broader global client base.

9. Conclusion: Launch Your Space Career with Oxford Space Systems

Oxford Space Systems is a dynamic UK-based scale-up transforming how satellites pack and deploy critical structures in orbit. By joining OSS, you can:

• Shape the next generation of lightweight and dependable deployable technology.

• Engage in hands-on R&D, from early concepts to flight trials.

• Enjoy an agile, innovative culture that fosters quick iteration and real synergy between design, test, and manufacturing teams.

• Develop your career in an environment well-connected to the broader Harwell space cluster, enabling you to forge relationships within the UK’s thriving space community.

If you’re passionate about mechanical engineering, advanced composites, orbital deployments, or seeing your hardware soar into space, then explore opportunities at Oxford Space Systems. Whether you’re an entry-level graduate or a seasoned aerospace professional, there’s scope to make an immediate impact by designing, building, and testing next-generation structures that will shape the future of in-orbit missions.

Ready to apply? Check out www.ukspacejobs.co.uk for the latest Oxford Space Systems openings—your chance to help pioneer the next era of satellite engineering and in-space technologies.