Electrical Systems Test Engineer - Satellite AIT
An opportunity to shape the performance and reliability of next‑generation spacecraft
Location: Onsite (UK Eyes Only)
Clearance: SC Clearance Required
Rate: £55.00 per hour (Umbrella, Inside IR35)
Hours: 37 per week
Role Overview
This role places the Electrical Test Engineer at the centre of satellite Assembly, Integration & Test (AIT). The engineer will design, develop, and execute complex electrical and functional test sequences that ensure spacecraft are fully prepared for the challenges of launch and the space environment.
They will work hands‑on with flight hardware, support live test operations, investigate anomalies, and contribute to the technical reviews that determine spacecraft readiness. This position is ideal for someone who thrives on precision, problem‑solving, and the excitement of seeing their work contribute directly to a mission in orbit.
Reports to: Satellite AIT Electrical Test Engineering Manager Works with: AIT EGSE engineers, Functional Verification engineers, Quality teams, Design and Operations architects, AIT management, CADM
Key Responsibilities
Test Development & Execution
Interpret electrical and functional test requirements from detailed specifications.
Develop, debug, and execute automated test sequences using high‑level languages and bespoke spacecraft checkout systems.
Prepare and run complex test procedures on flight spacecraft and test benches.
Provide first‑line technical support to operations teams during live spacecraft testing.
Technical Investigation & Review
Support anomaly investigations and contribute to Non‑Conformance Review Boards (NRBs).
Participate in major project reviews including Test Readiness Reviews, Post‑Test Reviews, and Test Review Boards.
Produce clear, comprehensive test reports and documentation.
Environmental & System Testing
Support spacecraft functional and performance testing during environmental campaigns such as TVAC, magnetic, and EMC testing.
Assist in spacecraft system investigations and follow‑up actions from review boards.
Quality & Standards
Work in accordance with company procedures, quality standards, and cleanroom disciplines.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to enhance test coverage and reliability.
Skills & Knowledge
Technical Expertise
Experience writing spacecraft test sequences/scripts for Central Checkout Systems (CCS).
Knowledge of scripting or programming languages (e.g., Elisa, Java, C, Python, TCL, VBA).
Understanding of spacecraft subsystems such as:
Data Handling & TMTC
1553 and SpaceWire communications
Attitude & Orbit Control Systems
Power systems, batteries, solar arrays
Thermal control and FDIR
Familiarity with Linux/Unix and Windows environments.
Competence with electrical test equipment (oscilloscopes, DMMs, current probes, data bus analysers).
Awareness of system‑level testing and verification processes.
Experience
Developing and debugging spacecraft system test sequences, including FDIR.
Supporting environmental and launch test campaigns.
Investigating electrical/system faults and resolving test anomalies.
Preparing test procedures, writing reports, and supporting technical reviews.
(Desirable) Electrical integration experience on spacecraft or test benches.
Education & Background
Degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline OR
5+ years of relevant experience in spacecraft, avionics, or complex electronic systems testing
Experience within the space or aerospace sector is highly beneficial
Security Requirements
The successful candidate must be a UK National and able to obtain SC‑level security clearance prior to starting.
This vacancy is being advertised by Belcan
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