Discover the latest satellite payload engineer jobs within the UK Space industry

Product Test Engineer

This role involves hands-on electrical and RF testing of satellite avionics hardware, including developing and executing test plans for digital, analogue, and mixed-signal systems. The engineer will debug circuit-level issues, maintain test rigs, and contribute to process improvements and test automation. Close collaboration with design and production teams ensures robust, high-reliability testing aligned with space industry standards.

Surrey Satellite Technology Guildford, GU2 7YE, United Kingdom

On-site Permanent Clearance Required

Senior FPGA Engineer

This role involves leading the On-Board Data Handling (OBDH) subsystem for satellite missions, from concept through to in-orbit operation. The engineer will design and verify FPGA logic using VHDL, manage technical requirements and work packages, and collaborate across disciplines to deliver spacecraft OBDH systems including on-board computers, data recorders, and payload interfaces. The position offers hands-on involvement in space missions with a flexible, hybrid working environment.

Surrey Satellite Technology Guildford, GU2 7YE, United Kingdom

Hybrid Permanent

Senior Spectrum Systems Engineer

This role involves leading spectrum compliance for satellite systems, translating regulations like EPFD and PFD into technical design requirements. The engineer will develop end-to-end simulation models for interference and coexistence, support ITU filings, and guide frequency usage strategies across LEO constellations. Work includes both ground and in-orbit verification, with strong emphasis on regulatory alignment and system-level performance.

Open Cosmos Ltd Didcot, OX11 0RL, United Kingdom

On-site Permanent

Data Software Engineer

Design and build scalable data pipelines to transform raw Earth Observation data into high-quality, actionable insights. Work with satellite data, geospatial platforms, and productionise scientific code within a mission-driven space technology environment. Focus on reliability, data standards, and integration of new data types and processing techniques.

Open Cosmos Ltd Didcot, OX11 0RL, United Kingdom

Remote Permanent

Payload Product Assurance Manager - IRIS² - F/H

Oversee quality assurance for satellite payload systems within the IRIS² programme, ensuring compliance with contractual and internal standards. Act as the primary quality interface with the client, coordinate cross-functional quality activities, manage risk and non-conformances, and validate product conformance across design, manufacturing, and testing phases. Work within a high-tech aerospace environment focused on European sovereignty and innovation.

Thales Alenia Space France

Shipping Manager / Officer

Organise domestic and international shipments of satellite components and sensitive payloads, ensuring compliance with UK export controls, ITAR/EAR regulations, and customs requirements. Manage relationships with freight forwarders, oversee shipping documentation, and improve logistics processes within a high-tech aerospace and defence environment.

Hays Procurement Jobs Guildford, Surrey, United Kingdom £40,000 – £45,000 pa

On-site Contract Clearance Required

Satellite Operations Engineer

This role involves direct operations of live Earth Observation satellites, covering commissioning, in-orbit testing, health monitoring, and anomaly resolution. The engineer will develop operational procedures, support mission readiness, and collaborate with engineering teams to enhance automation and mission performance. Work includes on-call duties and close coordination with ground segment teams to ensure mission success.

GCS United Kingdom £55,000 – £60,000 pa

Software and Satellite Operations Quality Assurance Engineer

This role involves ensuring software quality across the full development lifecycle for satellite systems while also providing mission assurance during satellite operations, including anomaly response and commissioning. The engineer will lead root cause analyses, manage non-conformances, and improve processes using standards like ISO 29110 and ECSS. A key focus is bridging software QA with automated satellite operations, supporting AI/ML-driven fleet management and enhancing fault detection and recovery systems.

Spire Glasgow, Alba / Scotland, G2 1AL, United Kingdom

Senior Project Manager - Space / Satellite

This role involves leading end-to-end satellite mission projects from contract award through spacecraft development, launch, commissioning, and operational acceptance. The Senior Project Manager will provide strategic leadership across engineering, commercial, and supply chain functions, acting as the primary customer interface and ensuring delivery within financial, schedule, and technical constraints. The position focuses on scaling production for innovative constellation satellite missions serving institutional, defence, and international clients.

Langham Recruitment Guildford, Surrey, United Kingdom

Hybrid Permanent Clearance Required

Junior Hardware Engineer (Electronics)

Design and develop advanced GNSS and RF electronics for satellite communication systems as part of a multidisciplinary hardware team. Work from concept through to delivery, with structured training in FPGA and RF design. Collaborate with applications, software, and systems teams in a niche R&D environment focused on positioning, navigation, and timing technology.

Ernest Gordon Recruitment Lancaster, United Kingdom

Senior Mission Operations Engineer

This role involves end-to-end mission operations for satellite systems, including real-time spacecraft control, anomaly resolution, mission planning, and development of operational tools and procedures. The engineer will act as a technical lead, support multiple mission phases, and innovate operations for a growing fleet. It offers broad technical ownership and strategic influence within a collaborative, international team.

Holt Executive Oxfordshire, United Kingdom £60,000 – £94,000 pa

Business Development Manager - Space

This role involves driving business growth in the UK defence and space sector by identifying and developing new commercial opportunities. The candidate will work closely with technical teams to tailor complex solutions for customers, lead proposals and negotiations, and expand existing client relationships. The position offers strategic autonomy and a focus on building networks within the space and satellite market.

Rutherford Briant Cambridge, United Kingdom £85,000 – £95,000 pa

RTL Design Team Lead - FPGA / ASIC

Lead and mentor a hardware design team while delivering complex RTL designs for FPGA and ASIC platforms in next-generation 5G and satellite communication systems. Translate system requirements into high-performance digital IP, optimise for throughput, timing, and power, and collaborate with algorithm and software teams. Engage in technical roadmap planning and integrate AI tools into design workflows.

Spectrum IT Recruitment Southampton, United Kingdom £150,000 – £155,000 pa

Spacecraft Electronics Engineer

This role involves designing and integrating custom electronics for satellite systems, including PCB design, component selection, and power/signal integrity analysis. The engineer will work closely with software and mechanical teams, perform board bring-up and debugging, and support testing and qualification. Work spans from concept to production, with a focus on high-reliability space applications.