This is a rare opportunity to join a fast-growing space technology organisation tackling one of the most critical challenges facing the industry today, ensuring the long-term sustainability of space operations. You’ll play a key role in developing advanced ground segment systems that support cutting-edge satellite missions.
We’re looking for an experienced Ground Segment Software Team Lead to drive both the technical direction and people leadership of a high-performing engineering team. This role combines hands-on software development with system-level thinking and team management responsibility.
You will lead the development of ground segment software used to operate complex space missions, contributing to system architecture, overseeing delivery, and ensuring high-quality, reliable solutions. Alongside your technical responsibilities, you’ll manage and mentor a team of engineers, supporting their growth and performance.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the design, development, validation, and maintenance of ground segment software systems
Contribute to system architecture and high-level design decisions
Capture and define requirements, translating them into use cases and user stories
Oversee software development, integration, testing, and deployment activities
Ensure documentation is complete, accurate, and aligned with requirements
Support system verification, validation, and integration activities
Contribute to mission system testing and simulation campaigns
Collaborate with operations teams to troubleshoot issues and provide technical guidance
Manage project work packages, timelines, and delivery milestones
Lead and develop a team of software engineers, including performance reviews and day-to-day support
Essential Skills & Experience
Degree in Computer Science, Telecommunications, or a related engineering discipline
Proven experience across the full software development lifecycle (requirements through to maintenance)
Strong background in satellite ground segment or mission control systems
Experience designing and developing complex software systems for space or similar domains
Proficiency in Java and/or Python
Experience working in Linux environments, including shell scripting
Familiarity with Mission Control Systems (e.g. SCOS-2000 or similar)
Understanding of software engineering best practices and project lifecycle processes
Experience leading or mentoring engineering teams
Knowledge of ECSS standards
Familiarity with containerisation and cloud technologies (Docker, Kubernetes)
Desirable Experience
Background in spacecraft operations or close collaboration with operations teams
Experience working in Agile/Scrum environments
Knowledge of spacecraft communication protocols (e.g. CCSDS, CAN, SpaceWire)
What’s on Offer
Hybrid and flexible working arrangements
25 days holiday (increasing with service) + bank holidays
Private healthcare and life insurance
Long-term sick pay
Optional compressed working pattern (9/75)
Relocation support and visa sponsorship available (where applicable)
Modern office and engineering facilities
Collaborative, international team environment
Regular social and team events
About the Opportunity
You’ll be joining an organisation at the forefront of next-generation space technology, working on mission-critical systems that support the future of satellite operations. This is a chance to make a tangible impact in a highly innovative and purpose-driven environment, while leading a team at the cutting edge of ground segment software engineering.
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