
The Most In-Demand Space Jobs of 2025
Estimated reading time: 12–15 minutes
The space industry is soaring to new heights—both literally and figuratively. Once dominated by government agencies, the sector has exploded into a vibrant ecosystem of private companies, research institutions, and start-ups. From reusable rockets and satellite constellations to ambitious missions to the Moon and Mars, space is no longer a distant frontier reserved for a select few. Instead, it’s becoming a global marketplace bustling with innovation and talent.
As this new era unfolds, the UK space sector is set to expand significantly in the coming years, propelled by government support, growing investor interest, and technological breakthroughs. For job seekers, this translates into a wealth of career opportunities spanning engineering, data science, manufacturing, policy, and more. In this article, we’ll explore the most in-demand space jobs of 2025—including the skills, responsibilities, and outlook for each role. Whether you’re an aspiring rocket engineer or a policy expert, you’ll learn how to position yourself for success in one of the world’s most exciting industries.
For real-time job listings, professional insights, and resources specific to the UK space sector, visit ukspacejobs.co.uk. It’s the perfect launch pad to help you navigate the cosmos of career possibilities.
1. Aerospace Engineer (Launch Vehicles)
Why This Role is in High Demand
As private firms and national agencies race to develop more efficient, cost-effective launch vehicles, Aerospace Engineers with expertise in rocket design, aerodynamics, and structural integrity are in high demand. The UK’s move to establish domestic launch sites—such as those in Scotland—further amplifies the need for professionals who can design, test, and refine next-generation rockets.
Key Responsibilities
Designing and optimising rocket structures, fuel systems, and guidance components for suborbital and orbital missions.
Running computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to validate aerodynamic performance and reduce drag.
Overseeing manufacturing processes and material selection to balance weight, strength, and cost.
Conducting static and dynamic tests—such as vibration, thermal, and stress analyses—to ensure vehicle reliability.
Collaborating with mission planners to align launch vehicle capabilities with payload requirements.
Essential Skills
Mechanical & Structural Engineering: Understanding of load distributions, material fatigue, and design for manufacturability.
Propulsion & Fluid Mechanics: Familiarity with rocket engines (liquid, solid, hybrid) and fluid flow.
CAD & Simulation Tools: Proficiency in software like CATIA, SolidWorks, ANSYS, or MATLAB/Simulink.
Project Management: Coordinating cross-functional teams under tight deadlines and regulatory constraints.
Regulatory Knowledge: Awareness of national and international launch protocols, safety, and licensing regulations.
Career Outlook
With rocket innovation at an all-time high, Aerospace Engineers specialising in launch systems often enjoy competitive salaries. Senior roles can command £60,000–£80,000 or more, especially for those who have taken vehicles from initial design to successful flight tests.
2. Satellite Systems Engineer
Why This Role is in High Demand
Satellites underpin everything from global communications and navigation to Earth observation and scientific research. As the UK’s satellite manufacturing sector grows—supported by initiatives like the Satellite Applications Catapult—companies need engineers to design and manage satellites that are lighter, smarter, and more resilient.
Key Responsibilities
Developing satellite subsystems (power, communication, thermal, attitude control) from concept to integration.
Selecting and testing components for minimal weight, robust performance, and radiation tolerance in space.
Managing interface requirements to ensure different subsystems (e.g., payload, power supply) work seamlessly together.
Coordinating with launch providers to confirm satellite compatibility and safe deployment procedures.
Monitoring satellite performance post-launch, analysing telemetry data, and troubleshooting anomalies.
Essential Skills
Systems Engineering: Strong grasp of end-to-end satellite architecture, from command & control to thermal management.
Electronics & Power Management: Knowledge of solar panel systems, battery technologies, and power regulation.
RF & Communication: Familiarity with radio frequency (RF) design, antenna systems, and data transmission protocols.
Thermal & Structural Analysis: Use of simulation tools (Thermica, NX) to ensure reliability in extreme temperatures and microgravity.
Problem-Solving: Quick thinking to diagnose and fix on-orbit malfunctions with limited real-time data.
Career Outlook
Satellite Systems Engineers find roles in major aerospace firms, small satellite start-ups, and research institutions. Entry-level salaries often start around £35,000, with senior and lead engineers earning £60,000 or more. Demand is particularly high for specialists in small-sat constellations and high-throughput communication satellites.
3. Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer
Why This Role is in High Demand
From low-Earth orbit to interplanetary missions, propulsion systems enable spacecraft to manoeuvre, stabilise, and reach distant destinations. Innovations in electric propulsion, ion thrusters, and green propellants have opened new frontiers, sparking the need for propulsion experts who can push the boundaries of performance and efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
Designing and testing propulsion systems, including chemical rockets, electric thrusters, or hybrid systems.
Evaluating propellant options (e.g., hydrazine, xenon, advanced alternatives) for cost, performance, and environmental impact.
Running simulations to optimise thrust, specific impulse, and propellant usage for mission profiles.
Overseeing the integration of propulsion modules with spacecraft buses, verifying mechanical and electrical interfaces.
Conducting ground-based hot-fire tests and data analysis to validate system performance before launch.
Essential Skills
Fluid Dynamics & Thermodynamics: Deep knowledge of high-temperature gas flow, nozzle design, and heat transfer.
Chemical & Electric Propulsion: Familiarity with bipropellant engines, Hall-effect thrusters, or other in-space propulsion concepts.
Modelling & Simulation: Proficiency in tools like NPSS (Numerical Propulsion System Simulation) or ANSYS Fluent.
Safety & Risk Management: Handling volatile propellants requires meticulous adherence to safety protocols.
Analytical Thinking: Creating performance budgets and trade studies to match mission constraints with feasible solutions.
Career Outlook
Propulsion Engineers are crucial for both established aerospace primes and NewSpace start-ups focusing on micro- to heavy-lift vehicles. Salaries reflect the specialised nature of propulsion work, often ranging from £40,000–£70,000, with significant growth potential for proven experts in advanced propulsion technologies.
4. Mission Control Specialist / Flight Controller
Why This Role is in High Demand
Once a domain of national agencies like NASA or ESA, mission control is now relevant to private sector ventures operating satellites, space stations, or deep-space probes. Mission Control Specialists—also known as Flight Controllers—monitor and manage spacecraft in real-time, ensuring nominal operations and swift response to anomalies.
Key Responsibilities
Overseeing spacecraft telemetry, tracking key parameters (temperature, voltage, orientation) to detect potential issues.
Coordinating with engineering teams and ground station operators for real-time command uplinks and data downlinks.
Executing planned manoeuvres—such as orbit adjustments or station-keeping—within strict time windows.
Developing contingency procedures for off-nominal events (e.g., power system failures, communication drop-outs).
Documenting mission progress and generating detailed logs for post-flight analyses.
Essential Skills
Systems Monitoring: Aptitude for reading flight data and quickly identifying deviations from expected trends.
Communication & Teamwork: Efficient handovers between shifts and constant coordination with engineers, scientists, and management.
Real-Time Decision-Making: Confidence under pressure, balancing multiple data streams in fast-paced conditions.
Software & Network Tools: Familiarity with mission control software, ground segment networks, and flight dynamics applications.
Regulatory Compliance: Awareness of ITU (International Telecommunication Union) regulations, radio spectrum allocations, and flight corridor rules.
Career Outlook
Mission control roles can be found at satellite operators, ground station networks, and agencies like the UK Space Agency (UKSA). Salaries tend to start around £30,000–£40,000, increasing for team leads or specialists handling deep-space missions or large satellite constellations.
5. Planetary Scientist / Astrogeologist
Why This Role is in High Demand
With renewed global interest in lunar bases, Martian missions, and asteroid mining, Planetary Scientists and Astrogeologists play pivotal roles in understanding celestial bodies’ composition, formation, and resource potential. Whether through robotic rovers or sample-return missions, their research helps shape the next generation of exploration and exploitation strategies.
Key Responsibilities
Analysing remote sensing data (spectrometry, radar, camera footage) from planetary missions to identify geological features.
Studying mineralogy and geochemistry of samples—whether from meteorites or returned from missions—to reveal planetary histories.
Designing instruments for future missions, ensuring they can withstand harsh conditions (extreme temperature swings, low gravity).
Collaborating with space agencies to plan mission objectives, landing site selections, and scientific experiments.
Publishing findings in scientific journals, presenting at conferences, and engaging in outreach to inspire the public.
Essential Skills
Geosciences & Planetary Formation: Foundation in geology, geophysics, and geochemistry with a space-focused twist.
Remote Sensing: Familiarity with satellite imaging, spectral analysis, and data processing software (ENVI, QGIS).
Lab Techniques: Handling cryogenic samples, vacuum chambers, or advanced microscopy to investigate extraterrestrial materials.
Team Collaboration: Working closely with engineers and mission planners to inform design choices for rovers and landers.
Communication & Publication: Ability to articulate scientific findings to both academic peers and the general public.
Career Outlook
Planetary Scientists find homes in academia, space agency research centres, and private companies eyeing in-situ resource utilisation (ISRU). Salaries vary, but postdoctoral researchers might earn £35,000–£45,000, with established scientists in government or commercial roles exceeding £60,000–£70,000, especially if they lead high-profile missions.
6. Space Robotics & Automation Engineer
Why This Role is in High Demand
Robotic arms, rovers, and autonomous drones are essential for off-planet construction, servicing satellites, and exploring remote landscapes. As the sector shifts towards on-orbit servicing and planetary habitation, Space Robotics Engineers design machines capable of functioning semi- or fully autonomously in extreme conditions.
Key Responsibilities
Designing robotic mechanisms (joints, actuators, end-effectors) for microgravity or planetary surfaces.
Implementing control algorithms to enable precise manipulation, path planning, and hazard avoidance.
Developing software frameworks that incorporate sensor fusion (cameras, LiDAR, force sensors) to achieve situational awareness.
Overseeing integration of robotics into spacecraft or rovers, ensuring minimal mass, power draw, and fault tolerance.
Conducting ground-based simulations and vacuum chamber tests to replicate low-gravity or vacuum conditions.
Essential Skills
Mechanical & Electrical Engineering: Proficiency in designing and powering robotic subsystems.
Control Theory: Knowledge of PID, model predictive control, or advanced techniques to handle time delays and uncertain environments.
Sensors & Embedded Systems: Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS) for robotics, as well as sensor calibration.
Software Development: Experience with ROS (Robot Operating System) or custom robotics frameworks for distributed systems.
Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Working with planetary scientists, mission designers, and hardware teams to ensure synergy.
Career Outlook
Space robotics is an area of intense growth, particularly in on-orbit satellite servicing, debris removal, and planetary exploration. Salaries often parallel those in high-level robotics roles, easily reaching £45,000–£80,000 depending on experience, project scope, and leadership responsibilities.
7. Earth Observation Data Analyst
Why This Role is in High Demand
Earth Observation (EO) satellites produce terabytes of data daily—monitoring climate change, tracking deforestation, predicting weather, and more. EO Data Analysts convert raw images and sensor readings into meaningful insights, informing decisions in government policy, agriculture, disaster relief, and commerce. With the UK’s strong geospatial community, demand for EO specialists is on the rise.
Key Responsibilities
Processing satellite imagery (multispectral, hyperspectral, radar) to classify land use, detect anomalies, or measure environmental parameters.
Employing machine learning or AI techniques to identify patterns, such as illegal logging or urban sprawl.
Managing large datasets in cloud-based infrastructures, ensuring efficient data storage and retrieval.
Creating visualisations and dashboards that simplify complex EO data for policymakers or corporate stakeholders.
Collaborating with domain experts—climatologists, urban planners, security analysts—to tailor insights for practical use.
Essential Skills
Remote Sensing Techniques: Understanding how different imaging sensors operate and how to handle atmospheric corrections or georeferencing.
Geospatial Analysis: Proficiency with GIS software (QGIS, ArcGIS) and programming languages (Python, R) for data processing.
Machine Learning: Familiarity with algorithms like convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for image segmentation and object detection.
Big Data & Cloud: Competence in handling large-scale data pipelines using platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
Interpretation & Communication: Translating data outputs into clear recommendations or policy briefs.
Career Outlook
EO Data Analysts are employed by satellite operators, environmental agencies, consultancies, and international organisations. Salaries typically start around £30,000–£40,000, with senior analysts or those specialising in cutting-edge machine learning for EO data often surpassing £60,000–£70,000.
8. Space Manufacturing & Materials Specialist
Why This Role is in High Demand
Launching hardware into orbit is expensive, and conditions in space can be punishing. Space Manufacturing & Materials Specialists research and develop lightweight, durable materials—like advanced composites or 3D-printed alloys—that can withstand microgravity, extreme temperatures, and cosmic radiation. As in-orbit manufacturing gains traction, this area is set for explosive growth.
Key Responsibilities
Exploring novel alloys, composites, or carbon-fibre-reinforced polymers designed for low mass and high strength.
Implementing additive manufacturing techniques (3D printing) for complex spacecraft components, potentially even in orbit.
Conducting stress, thermal, and radiation tests on new materials to ensure reliability in the space environment.
Assessing cost-effectiveness and feasibility of mass-producing these materials for commercial missions.
Collaborating with propulsion, structural, and robotics teams to integrate new manufacturing processes into spacecraft designs.
Essential Skills
Materials Science & Engineering: Deep knowledge of metallurgical processes, polymer chemistry, and microstructure analysis.
Additive Manufacturing: Experience with selective laser sintering (SLS), fused deposition modelling (FDM), or direct metal laser sintering (DMLS).
Testing & Quality Assurance: Familiarity with non-destructive testing (NDT), mechanical testing, and radiation-hardness evaluations.
Design for Space: Understanding how to optimise part geometry for launch loads, thermal extremes, and vacuum conditions.
Innovation Mindset: Pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, from self-healing materials to in-situ resource utilisation (ISRU) on lunar or Martian surfaces.
Career Outlook
Space-focused materials roles often reside in R&D departments of aerospace giants or specialist start-ups. Salaries for junior engineers might begin around £35,000, with seasoned experts involved in large-scale manufacturing solutions or research projects surpassing £70,000.
9. Space Policy & Law Expert
Why This Role is in High Demand
As more nations and private players stake claims in space, legal and policy frameworks lag behind technological advances. Space Policy & Law Experts navigate issues such as orbital debris, property rights, spectrum allocation, and commercial licensing—ensuring that exploration remains both viable and responsible. The UK has been a leader in shaping progressive space regulations, bolstering demand for experts in this arena.
Key Responsibilities
Advising government bodies, space agencies, or private companies on compliance with national and international treaties (e.g., Outer Space Treaty).
Drafting or reviewing licensing documents, memoranda of understanding (MoUs), and liability frameworks for space missions.
Engaging in diplomatic or inter-agency negotiations around frequency allocations, launch permissions, and usage rights.
Monitoring legislative proposals that affect space activities and providing strategic insights to stakeholders.
Advocating for responsible and sustainable usage of space, addressing issues like orbital debris or resource exploitation on celestial bodies.
Essential Skills
Legal Knowledge: Familiarity with space law treaties, regulatory regimes, and relevant national acts (e.g., UK Space Industry Act 2018).
Policy Analysis: Ability to interpret complex legislation, identify risks, and propose coherent solutions.
Negotiation & Communication: Diplomacy skills to balance commercial interests, national security, and scientific priorities.
Research & Writing: Producing clear, persuasive documents that guide lawmakers, corporate boards, or international forums.
Ethical & Sustainability Awareness: Understanding of how space activities impact Earth and future generations.
Career Outlook
Space lawyers and policy analysts can find roles in government agencies, aerospace companies, consultancy firms, and academic institutions. Salaries are typically on par with high-level legal advisors, starting around £40,000–£50,000 and exceeding £80,000 for senior positions in multinational enterprises or specialised regulatory bodies.
10. Commercial Space Project Manager
Why This Role is in High Demand
As the commercial space sector grows, so does the complexity of coordinating multi-faceted missions and products. Commercial Space Project Managers ensure that hardware, software, budgets, and teams are aligned—whether the goal is launching a satellite constellation, establishing a lunar outpost, or rolling out ground-segment services for Earth observation.
Key Responsibilities
Creating and maintaining project plans, defining milestones, deliverables, and budgets across the mission lifecycle.
Coordinating cross-functional teams—engineers, data analysts, legal experts, marketers—to keep timelines on track.
Managing vendor relationships, ensuring procurement and contracts meet technical and financial requirements.
Overseeing risk management, identifying potential bottlenecks, and implementing mitigation strategies.
Reporting progress to stakeholders—ranging from corporate executives to government agencies and investors.
Essential Skills
Project Management Methodologies: Familiarity with Agile, Waterfall, or hybrid approaches suited to aerospace timelines.
Technical Understanding: Ability to engage effectively with engineers, understanding complexities of space missions.
Financial Acumen: Tracking project costs, forecasting returns on investment, and managing any changes in scope.
Communication & Leadership: Ensuring transparency and motivation among global, interdisciplinary teams.
Regulatory Knowledge: Navigating licensing, safety standards, and ITAR/EAR compliance if working on international projects.
Career Outlook
Project managers with aerospace experience are in hot demand, especially as private space ventures accelerate. Salaries typically range from £45,000–£80,000, with opportunities to earn more through performance bonuses or equity stakes in start-ups.
How to Stand Out in the Space Job Market
Acquire Relevant Qualifications
Degrees in aerospace engineering, physics, robotics, or materials science can give you a strong foundation. For non-technical roles, advanced degrees in law, policy, or business (with a space focus) may be beneficial.Build a Portfolio or Project Record
Whether it’s a rocketry club project, a coding portfolio showcasing satellite data analysis, or a legal research paper on space treaties, tangible evidence of your passion and skills can make you stand out.Network Strategically
Attend conferences (e.g., UK Space Conference), career fairs, and meetups. Engage in online forums or LinkedIn groups dedicated to the space industry. Networking often leads to valuable insights and job referrals.Stay Informed
The space industry evolves rapidly. Keep tabs on mission updates, new technologies, and shifting regulations. Subscribing to industry news (SpaceNews, ESA announcements, UKspace) can give you a competitive edge.Develop Cross-Functional Skills
Communication, project management, and collaboration across diverse teams are crucial. Demonstrating you can bridge engineering with business or legal with technical concerns often sets candidates apart.Seek Internships or Early Experience
Many UK-based companies and agencies offer internships, apprenticeships, or graduate programmes. These opportunities provide hands-on experience and can lead to full-time roles.
Key Sectors Driving UK Space Demand
Commercial Launch & Spaceports
New vertical and horizontal spaceports in Scotland and other regions drive demand for engineers, technicians, and regulatory experts.Small Satellite Manufacturing
The UK is a global leader in small-sat and CubeSat development, fostering growth in systems engineering, payload integration, and supply chain management.Earth Observation & Climate Science
Copernicus and other Earth observation missions place the UK at the forefront of climate data analytics and environmental monitoring.Satellite Communications
High-throughput satellites and 5G integration power broadband services worldwide, creating opportunities for comms engineers and project managers.In-Space Servicing & Space Logistics
Satellite refuelling, debris removal, and on-orbit assembly are emerging sectors that require robotics, propulsion, and advanced materials expertise.
Challenges in the Evolving Space Landscape
Regulatory Hurdles
Launch licences, ITAR/EAR export controls, and orbital debris regulations can slow innovation and require expert navigation.High Costs & Funding Volatility
Space projects can be expensive, with funding cycles influenced by politics and investor sentiment. Consistent capital flow is never guaranteed.Skilled Talent Shortage
The industry’s rapid growth outpaces the supply of specialised engineers, scientists, and legal experts, intensifying competition for top talent.Sustainability & Debris
Crowded orbits raise collision risks. Companies must plan responsibly to manage satellites post-mission and minimise debris.Geopolitical Pressures
International cooperation is vital in space—yet political tensions can hamper collaborative missions, technology transfers, and data sharing.
Conclusion: Reaching for the Stars in 2025
As the UK space sector accelerates towards new frontiers—launching homegrown rockets, deploying advanced satellite constellations, and venturing into deep-space exploration—the demand for skilled professionals soars in tandem. From hands-on engineering roles shaping spacecraft components to strategic positions in policy, project management, and data analytics, the opportunities are vast and varied.
Success in this dynamic field hinges on a robust educational foundation, practical experience, and the ability to collaborate across disciplines. Whether you dream of propelling rockets to orbit, analysing planetary samples for hidden treasures, or navigating the legal complexities of outer space, the next few years will offer countless pathways to innovate and make a meaningful impact.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your space career, explore ukspacejobs.co.uk—a dedicated platform connecting job seekers with the latest vacancies, insights, and resources in the UK space industry. The sky is no longer the limit; it’s just the starting point for your journey to the stars. Safe travels and happy job hunting!