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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
48
Salary range
£40k – £88k
Hiring companies
16
View 48 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

£40k – £88k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 89 UK listings priced in pounds in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

Salary visibility
16% of listings advertise a salary — up from 0% the year before.
By seniority
£k base
Mid
45
68
16 jobs
Senior
52
109
24 jobs
Lead
60
87
7 jobs
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 78 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

Systems Engineering
37%
Requirements Management
24%
MATLAB
18%
Simulink
12%
Technical Documentation
10%
System Architecture
10%
MBSE
9%
Python
9%
DOORS
9%
Rhapsody
9%
Project Management
8%
SysML
8%
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

48 live roles

See all 48 roles →

Systems Engineer

The Systems Engineer will work on the design, integration, and testing of advanced sensor and communication payloads for satellite systems. Responsibilities include capturing engineering requirements, developing system architectures, managing system budgets, and overseeing integration and test campaigns.

Platform Recruitment Oxford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom £65,000 – £75,000 pa
On-site Permanent

Systems Engineer

This role involves delivering client-facing Systems Engineering across complex, regulated programmes in defence, nuclear, space, and utilities sectors. Responsibilities include concept development, requirements, architecture, modelling, integration, validation, and stakeholder coordination.

Rise Technical Recruitment Gloucestershire, United Kingdom £50,000 – £60,000 pa

Systems Engineer - Radar

This role involves systems engineering for radar and sensor technologies, focusing on the G1X software-defined radar. The engineer will work across the product lifecycle, including requirements management, performance analysis, algorithm development, and system design, with opportunities to contribute to product enhancements and customer demonstrations. The position requires handling classified information and involves collaboration within UK and international teams.

Saab United Kingdom
On-site Permanent Clearance Required

Systems Engineer - Radar

IntroductionSaab UK is part of Scandinavia's largest defence company, bringing together the best of Swedish and British innovation. Saab offers world-leading solutions and services in defence, aviation, space, and civil security to keep people and society safe. Our UK presence...

Saab Fareham, United Kingdom

Systems Engineering Consultant

The role involves leading major consulting projects in systems engineering, providing technical expertise and strategic advice, and contributing to business development. Responsibilities include mentoring junior consultants, developing technical solutions, and engaging with clients in defence, telecommunications, and other high-integrity sectors.

Gregory Martin International Chippenham, Wiltshire, United Kingdom £60,000 – £80,000 pa

Systems Engineering Consultant

The role involves leading major consulting projects in systems engineering, ensuring technical excellence and client satisfaction. Responsibilities include strategic advice on defence programs, developing architectures and technical roadmaps, and mentoring junior consultants. The position requires extensive experience in defence systems engineering, stakeholder engagement, and business development.

Gregory Martin International Portsmouth, Hampshire, United Kingdom £60,000 – £80,000 pa

Systems Engineering Team Lead

Leads a team of systems engineers while actively contributing to the design and development of complex spacecraft systems across the full lifecycle, from mission concept to integration and verification. Focuses on technical trade-offs, requirements management, and cross-disciplinary coordination within a high-tech space organisation. Offers leadership responsibility alongside hands-on engineering in a collaborative, international environment.

Holt Executive Oxfordshire, United Kingdom £65,000 – £98,000 pa

Systems Hardware Engineer

This role involves supporting the design and development of electronic controller products for aerospace and training/simulation markets. You will work closely with multidisciplinary teams to translate customer and product requirements into robust technical solutions, covering the full engineering lifecycle from requirements to delivery.

Expleo Bristol, Bristol (county), United Kingdom £60,000 – £72,500 pa
See all 48 roles →
Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

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

Portsmouth

Location
4 open

Oxford

Location
4 open

London

Location
2 open

Bristol

Location
1 open

Cambridge

Location
1 open

Plymouth

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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