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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

Lead Systems Engineer

Lead Systems Engineer role at Airbus Defence and Space in Stevenage, focusing on Military Satellite Communications (Milsatcom) programmes. The role involves defining system architecture for UK MOD projects like Skynet Enduring Capability, leading requirements capture, stakeholder engagement, and applying Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) across space, control, and ground segments. Works within a team of engineers and architects under the Head of Systems Engineering.

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

SCOF Systems Engineer

The role involves maintaining the operational state of the SCOF ground segment equipment, including RF systems, modems, and communications systems. Responsibilities include providing on-call support, maintaining system drawings, and identifying opportunities for system upgrades and enhancements.

Airbus Defence and Space East Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent Clearance Required

Senior Power Systems Engineer

This role involves leading the design, analysis, development, and verification of power systems for spacecraft missions. The engineer will manage power subsystems, interface with other technical leads, and ensure the delivery of innovative power solutions from concept to launch.

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

Senior Structural and Mechanical Systems Engineer

This role involves leading the design, analysis, and testing of spacecraft structures and mechanical systems. You will manage work packages, mitigate risks, and ensure compliance with customer requirements, while working closely with the mechanical design team to deliver innovative and robust solutions.

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

Senior UAV Systems Engineer - Design and Integration

This role involves leading the design, integration, and troubleshooting of avionics and onboard systems for an unmanned aircraft. The engineer will define system architectures, manage complex hardware and software interfaces, and support testing across ground, simulation, and flight environments. Emphasis is placed on creating mature, productised systems with strong documentation and repeatable processes.

Matchtech West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Hybrid Permanent Clearance Required

Senior AOCS Systems Engineer

As a Senior AOCS Systems Engineer, you will lead the development and delivery of advanced AOCS solutions for multiple satellite missions, ensuring technical performance and reliability. You will design, simulate, and test AOCS subsystems, support bids, and collaborate with mission teams and suppliers to drive innovation and operational excellence.

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

Senior Spectrum Systems Engineer

As a Senior Spectrum Systems Engineer, you will lead the integration of spectrum compliance into satellite system design, using modelling and simulation to ensure regulatory adherence while maintaining performance. You will work closely with the Satcom team to define system requirements, build simulation models, and support regulatory engagement with high-quality datasets and insights.

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

Software & Control Systems Engineers

Design and develop control, monitoring, and embedded software systems for aerospace applications across the full engineering lifecycle. Work on safety-critical systems using model-based design, systems integration, and software verification in a regulated environment.

Rolls Royce 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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