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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

Software Systems Engineer

Design and analyze software for satellite communications systems using Model-Based Design and MBSE methodologies. Collaborate with development and test teams in an Agile environment to define system architecture and ensure software components meet user requirements. Contribute to all stages of the modeling lifecycle and help shape future space technologies.

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

Linux Systems Engineer

Job Description:SECURITY CLEARANCE:This position involves working within the UK Defence industry, requiring the applicants to be UK Nationals Only (No Dual Nationals) and able to be security cleared to a UK SC level.LOCATION:Stevenage (with some hybrid working available subject to...

Airbus Defence and Space Stevenage, United Kingdom

Propulsion Systems Engineer

This role involves designing, integrating, and delivering propulsion systems for spacecraft, working closely with systems, AOCS, thermal, mechanical, and mission teams. Responsibilities include propulsion architecture definition, performance analysis, trade-off studies, and supporting environmental and functional testing of propulsion hardware.

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

Embedded Systems Engineer

The role involves designing and developing real-time embedded software and firmware for critical hardware in both ground and space systems. Responsibilities include FPGA and firmware development, building embedded C/C++ applications, and optimizing performance in constrained environments.

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

Control Systems Engineer

Archangel Lightworks is a connectivity company building wireless technology to create the space-enabled networks of the future. We’re passionate about improving humanity’s communications infrastructure and solving some of Earth’s most critical problems from economic inclusion to climate change. Our start-up...

Archangel Lightworks Ox11Aa, OX1 1AA, United Kingdom

Senior Systems Engineer

As a Senior Systems Engineer, you will apply Systems Engineering principles across the full lifecycle, from requirements definition to system disposal. You will work on complex engineering challenges, provide technical leadership, and ensure successful system integration and delivery within multidisciplinary teams.

Appcastenterprise Portsmouth, United Kingdom £60,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent Clearance Required

Senior Systems Engineer

The role involves applying Systems Engineering principles to radar system development, from requirements definition and design through integration, support, and disposal. You will lead the technical evolution of existing radar products and develop new capabilities, resolving complex engineering challenges and managing system design and requirements.

Appcastenterprise Cowes, United Kingdom £66,300 pa
On-site Permanent Part-time Clearance Required

Trainee Systems Engineer - LEAP programme

This role involves participating in a 18-month fully paid Systems Engineering development programme, working on complex systems and bridging the gap between theoretical and practical engineering. You will engage in early-stage research, stakeholder engagement, system design, and integration, supported by mentoring and training.

Matchtech Edinburgh, Alba / Scotland, United Kingdom
On-site 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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