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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 - TEMPEST/EMC

This role involves systems engineering with a focus on TEMPEST and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) for defence and space applications. You'll work on MOD, government, and SATCOM projects, defining system requirements and architectures while ensuring compliance with safety, performance, and regulatory standards. The position emphasizes end-to-end system design, stakeholder collaboration, and lifecycle considerations within a secure, high-integrity environment.

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

Systems Safety Engineer

This role involves implementing and championing systems safety and regulatory compliance within a systems engineering environment, focusing on military satellite communications and future space projects. You'll develop safety and environmental cases for UK MOD and international clients, working across diverse regulations including CE marking, export control, and AI. The position supports professional growth with training, mentoring, and opportunities to influence safety practices across the project lifecycle.

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

Electrical Systems Engineer

The Electrical Systems Engineer will work on cutting-edge electrical power and propulsion systems for aerospace applications, contributing to technology development, system design, and project leadership. Responsibilities include strategy development, project definition, problem-solving, and collaboration with internal and external partners.

Rolls Royce Solihull, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent

Graduate Systems Engineer

This role involves supporting the development of safety-critical aerospace systems across the full engineering lifecycle, with a focus on requirements capture, system architecture, and verification. The engineer will work within multidisciplinary teams to ensure robust design and ongoing airworthiness of life-saving ejection and crashworthy seating systems. It offers hands-on experience in complex, regulated aerospace programmes using formal systems engineering methods and standards.

Martin Baker Denham, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent Clearance Required

Electrical Systems Engineer

The Electrical Systems Engineer will work on cutting-edge electrical power and propulsion systems for aerospace applications, contributing to technology development, system design, and project leadership. Responsibilities include strategy development, project definition, problem-solving, and collaboration with internal and external partners.

Rolls Royce United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent

Senior Systems Engineer

A leading space technology business is looking for a Senior Systems Engineer to support the development and delivery of next-generation spacecraft propulsion systems for commercial, scientific and defence space programmes.Working at the forefront of space propulsion technology, the business designs...

Cranleigh Scientific Westcott, Buckinghamshire, Buckinghamshire, United Kingdom

Power Systems Engineer

This role involves designing, analyzing, and developing power systems for spacecraft missions, from concept to launch. You will work closely with senior engineers to deliver flight modules, manage documentation, and perform testing and fault-finding, gaining hands-on experience with complex electronic systems.

Surrey Satellite Technology Guildford, GU2 7YE, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent

Senior Systems Engineer

As a Senior Systems Engineer, you will lead the technical delivery of complex space missions, driving system architecture, integration, and mission success. You will define and manage mission requirements, perform system analyses, and coordinate multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated spacecraft solutions while mentoring junior engineers and promoting best practices.

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