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Satellite Engineer Jobs

Design, build, and maintain the satellites that power global communications, Earth observation, and space science. A critical role in the UK's growing space sector.

Open roles
6
Salary range
£30k – £82k
Hiring companies
3
View 6 live roles → Get an alert

Satellite engineers are at the heart of the UK's space industry, working on cutting-edge projects that range from communications and Earth observation to scientific research. These professionals design, build, and maintain the satellites that enable a wide array of applications, from weather forecasting to national security. They work in a variety of settings, including aerospace companies, research institutions, and government agencies, contributing to both commercial and scientific missions.

What the role does

Inside the role of a Satellite Engineer

A typical week for a satellite engineer is a mix of design work, testing, and project management.

  1. 01
    Conducting design reviews and simulations
  2. 02
    Performing system integration and testing
  3. 03
    Collaborating with cross-functional teams
  4. 04
    Documenting technical specifications and reports
  5. 05
    Attending project meetings and status updates
  6. 06
    Troubleshooting and resolving technical issues
Salary on the board

£30k – £82k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 3 priced listings posted in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

By seniority
£k base
Mid
30
60
2 jobs
Lead
62
82
1 job
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 5 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

Test Procedures
40%
PCB Design
20%
Component Selection
20%
Oscilloscopes
20%
Multimeters
20%
Logic Analysers
20%
Soldering
20%
IPC Standards
20%
ESD Controls
20%
Validation Processes
20%
AIT
20%
Cleanroom
20%
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for satellite engineers. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior Satellite Engineer

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in the design and testing of satellite systems, working under the guidance of more experienced engineers.

  2. Level 2

    Satellite Systems Engineer

    3–5 yrs

    Take ownership of specific subsystems, manage small teams, and contribute to the overall design and integration of satellite systems.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Satellite Engineer

    6–10 yrs

    Lead major projects, oversee the work of junior engineers, and ensure the successful delivery of complex satellite systems.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Satellite Engineer

    10+ yrs

    Provide strategic direction, lead large-scale projects, and act as a technical authority on satellite engineering within the organisation.

Pathway

How to become a Satellite Engineer

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Academic Foundation

    Complete a degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field. Gain foundational knowledge in satellite systems and space technology.

  2. 2

    Entry-Level Experience

    Start as a junior satellite engineer, working on design and testing under the supervision of more experienced colleagues.

  3. 3

    Specialisation

    Develop expertise in a specific area of satellite engineering, such as communications, propulsion, or thermal systems.

  4. 4

    Project Management

    Take on leadership roles, managing projects and teams, and ensuring the successful delivery of satellite systems.

  5. 5

    Technical Authority

    Become a recognised expert in satellite engineering, providing strategic direction and technical leadership within the organisation.

  6. 6

    Industry Influence

    Contribute to industry standards and best practices, and influence the future of satellite technology through research and innovation.

Live jobs

6 live roles

TV Aerial and Satellite Engineer

This role involves installing and maintaining TV reception systems in commercial environments such as pubs, gyms, hotels, and betting shops. The engineer will also support AV equipment and Wi-Fi networks, with training provided for commercial RF distribution and IPTV systems.

Operations Resources Croydon, United Kingdom £30,000 – £34,500 pa
On-site Permanent

Satellite Systems Engineer

Satellite Systems EngineerThis is a fantastic opportunity for candidates with experience in satellite systems and communications to be a part of an award winning and innovative manufacturer or specialist hi-value products. Established now for over 30 years, you’d be joining...

Enterprise Recruitment Stevenage, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom £50,000 – £60,000 pa
On-site Permanent

Mechanical Engineer – Satellite Manufacturing (AIT Production)

You will contribute to the mechanical design, assembly, and testing of satellites, ensuring their performance, manufacturability, and long-term reliability. Responsibilities include developing mechanical designs, leading root-cause investigations, optimizing processes, and conducting structural and thermal analyses.

Open Cosmos Ltd Didcot, OX11 0RL, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent

Electronics Engineer – Satellite Manufacturing (AIT Production)

As an Electronics Engineer, you will work hands-on with production teams to test and improve electronic assemblies for satellites. Your responsibilities include integrating and validating electronic components, developing test procedures, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring compliance with aerospace standards.

Open Cosmos Ltd Didcot, OX11 0RL, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent
Exobotics Ltd logo

Lead AIT Engineer (Satellite Delivery)

This role involves leading the Assembly, Integration, and Test (AIT) function for two active satellite missions, ensuring campaigns are delivered on schedule and all test anomalies are formally closed. The position requires hands-on experience in cleanroom environments, familiarity with AIT procedures, and the ability to manage risks and document processes meticulously.

Exobotics Ltd London, United Kingdom £62,000 – £82,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent

Satellite Payload Processing Engineer

As a Satellite Payload Processing Engineer, you will design and implement processing chains to transform raw satellite data into high-quality Earth Observation products. You will collaborate with customers, sales teams, and mission engineers to define product specifications and develop image processing pipelines, ensuring reliable data delivery and advancing Open Cosmos's EO data platform.

Open Cosmos Ltd Didcot, OX11 0RL, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent
Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

The locations with the most live listings for this role today.

London

Location
1 open
FAQs

Common questions

  • A degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field is typically required. Relevant internships and practical experience are also valuable.

  • Strong technical skills in areas like systems engineering, materials science, and thermal management are essential. Project management and teamwork skills are also important.

  • Working hours can vary, but they often follow a standard 9-to-5 schedule. However, project deadlines and testing phases may require longer hours.

  • Career progression typically involves moving from junior roles to senior and principal positions, with increasing responsibility and leadership. See the career pathway section for more details.

  • Salaries for satellite engineers can vary based on experience, location, and the specific role. For more detailed salary information, please refer to the salary section on this page.

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