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Space Systems Engineer Jobs

Engineers who design, integrate, and test the complex systems that make up spacecraft and satellites. A critical role in ensuring mission success from launch to operation.

Open roles
76
Salary range
£45k – £90k
Hiring companies
24
View 76 live roles → Get an alert

Space Systems Engineers are at the heart of the UK's space sector, working on the intricate systems that power spacecraft and satellites. These engineers are responsible for the design, integration, and testing of everything from propulsion systems to communication networks. They work closely with multidisciplinary teams to ensure that all components of a spacecraft function seamlessly, from the initial concept to the final mission. Major players in the industry, including research-heavy startups, scaleups, and the larger consultancies, all rely on the expertise of Space Systems Engineers to bring their projects to life.

What the role does

Inside the role of a Space Systems Engineer

A typical week for a Space Systems Engineer is a mix of design work, testing, and collaboration with other specialists.

  1. 01
    Conduct system-level design reviews with cross-functional teams.
  2. 02
    Perform simulations and analyses to optimise system performance.
  3. 03
    Participate in integration and testing of subsystems.
  4. 04
    Document and report on test results and system performance.
  5. 05
    Collaborate with project managers to ensure timelines and budgets are met.
  6. 06
    Stay updated on the latest industry standards and technologies.
Salary on the board

£45k – £90k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 55 priced listings posted in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

Salary visibility
8% of listings advertise a salary — up from 0% the year before.
By seniority
£k base
Mid
45
68
16 jobs
Senior
50
121
14 jobs
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 85 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

Systems Engineering
36%
Requirements Management
22%
MATLAB
16%
Technical Documentation
12%
Project Management
11%
System Architecture
11%
Simulink
11%
MBSE
9%
Python
8%
DOORS
8%
Rhapsody
8%
SysML
7%
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

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

  1. Level 1

    Junior Space Systems Engineer

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in the design and testing of spacecraft systems under the guidance of senior engineers.

  2. Level 2

    Space Systems Engineer

    3–5 yrs

    Take ownership of specific subsystems, leading design and testing efforts, and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Space Systems Engineer

    6–10 yrs

    Lead the integration and testing of complex spacecraft systems, ensuring they meet mission requirements.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Space Systems Engineer

    10+ yrs

    Oversee the entire systems engineering process, from concept to mission completion, and mentor junior engineers.

Pathway

How to become a Space Systems Engineer

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

  1. 1

    Academic Foundation

    Gain a strong educational background in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field.

  2. 2

    Entry-Level Experience

    Start as a Junior Space Systems Engineer, learning the ropes and contributing to design and testing efforts.

  3. 3

    Specialisation

    Develop expertise in a specific area of space systems, such as propulsion, avionics, or thermal management.

  4. 4

    Leadership Roles

    Take on more responsibility, leading subsystem teams and managing complex projects.

  5. 5

    Strategic Oversight

    Advance to a Principal Engineer role, overseeing the entire systems engineering process and mentoring junior staff.

  6. 6

    Industry Expert

    Become a recognised expert in the field, contributing to industry standards and leading major space missions.

Live jobs

76 live roles

See all 76 roles →
Airbus Defence and Space logo

Systems Engineer

As a Systems Engineer, you will act as the bridge between shop floor users and third-party suppliers, focusing on monitoring service performance, supporting IT solutions, and maintaining the MES support strategy. You will work closely with an international team to ensure operational stability and optimize workflows, while also troubleshooting technical issues and engaging with third parties when necessary.

Airbus Defence and Space Stevenage, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent Clearance Required
Airbus Defence and Space logo

Systems Engineer

This role involves collaborating with the R&D team to develop and deploy SDR solutions, focusing on systems-level integration, RF chain performance, and real-time communication protocols. You will bridge the gap between clients and engineers, ensuring projects stay on track while contributing to cutting-edge RF technologies.

Airbus Defence and Space Portsmouth, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent Clearance Required

Systems Engineer

As a Systems Engineer at Open Cosmos, you will support the design, integration, and verification of spacecraft systems across multiple missions. You will work closely with multidisciplinary teams, apply MBSE methodologies, and contribute to system-level analysis and FMECA activities.

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

Systems Engineer

The Systems Engineer role involves leading space missions from concept to launch and operations, working on mission and system design, and collaborating with various teams to deliver innovative projects. The position offers a unique cradle-to-grave experience and the opportunity to see your work in space within a rapid timescale.

Surrey Satellite Technology Guildford, GU2 7YE, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent

Systems Engineer - Radar

As a Systems Engineer, you will work on the G1X radar, a software-defined radar with regular capability updates. Your responsibilities include bid support, requirements management, radar performance analysis, algorithm development, and customer demonstrations. You will collaborate with a team of experts and travel within the UK and abroad.

Saab United Kingdom
On-site Permanent Clearance Required

Systems Engineer - Flight Test & Evaluation

Job Title: Systems Engineer - Flight Test & EvaluationLocation: Coningsby, LincolnshireSalary: £DOEThe RoleWe are seeking a Systems Engineer to provide critical systems and operational analysis in support of the design, evaluation, and assurance of Typhoon mission systems for the RAF.Embedded...

Gold Group Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire, LN10 6QN, United Kingdom

Systems Engineer - Product Security Edgewing

This role involves applying product security principles to the design and development of advanced defence systems within a digital engineering environment. The engineer will conduct threat modelling, risk assessments, and ensure compliance with cybersecurity airworthiness standards such as DO-326B. Working within the Edgewing joint venture, the position plays a hands-on role in shaping security posture for next-generation aerospace platforms.

Appcastenterprise Frimley, United Kingdom £59,490 pa
Hybrid Permanent Clearance Required

Systems Engineering & Verification Engineer

Act as a systems engineering focal point, eliciting and validating technical requirements across stakeholders, developing solutions using Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), and ensuring robust system architectures. Support verification strategies, risk management, and cross-functional collaboration across Defence programmes. Work on innovative power and propulsion systems with a focus on safety, compliance, and lifecycle integration.

Rolls Royce Bristol, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent Clearance Required
See all 76 roles →
Top hirers

Companies hiring space systems engineers

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Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

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

Bristol

Location
3 open

London

Location
2 open

Portsmouth

Location
2 open

Glasgow

Location
1 open

Edinburgh

Location
1 open

Cambridge

Location
1 open
FAQs

Common questions

  • A degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field is typically required. Relevant experience and certifications can also be beneficial.

  • Key skills include strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, proficiency in systems engineering tools, and excellent communication and teamwork skills.

  • Career progression typically starts with entry-level roles, moves through specialisation and leadership positions, and culminates in strategic oversight and industry expertise.

  • Salaries can vary widely based on experience and location. For more detailed salary information, please refer to the salary section on this page.

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