Future Tech Jobs Future Tech Jobs

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
2
Hiring companies
2
View 2 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.
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 1 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

Systems Engineering
100%
Space Technology
100%
Mission Concept Studies
100%
R&D Projects
100%
Spacecraft Subsystems
100%
Satellite Programmes
100%
Industry Standards
100%
C5ISR Systems
100%
Multi-Domain Integration
100%
Technology Horizon Scanning
100%
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

2 live roles

BAE Systems logo

Space Mission Systems Engineer

In this role, you will support the development of multi-domain architecture concepts that integrate space systems with air, maritime, subsea, and land assets. You will work closely with multidisciplinary teams to ensure technical coherence, system performance, and successful delivery of mission objectives, while also identifying future operational challenges and opportunities for cross-domain capability enhancement.

BAE Systems Alton, Hampshire, United Kingdom £60,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent Flexible Clearance Required
Langham Recruitment logo

Senior Space Systems Engineer

Senior Space Systems Engineer | Guildford | Hybrid | Competitive salary + strong packageAre you an experienced Systems Engineer with a Space background? Do you want to support on the cutting-edge development of Space and Satellite exploration?Then this might be...

Langham Recruitment Guildford, Surrey, United Kingdom £40,000 – £60,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent Flexible
Top hirers

Companies hiring space systems engineers

See all companies →
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.

Hiring space systems engineers?

Post your role in 90 seconds and reach the specialist audience that already reads this page.

Post a job → See pricing

🍪 Basic, anonymous analytics (aggregate counts only, never shared) are always on. Accept to also enable third-party tools — Google Analytics, Microsoft Clarity, Mixpanel, Leadfeeder — which help us match you with relevant Space roles. We never sell your data or use it for cross-site advertising. See our Cookie Policy.