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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 →

Production Systems Software Engineer

As a Production Systems Software Engineer, you will develop and maintain digital systems for satellite manufacturing, focusing on improving data flow, traceability, and process efficiency. You'll work closely with production, engineering, and operations teams to design and implement IT and automation solutions, ensuring systems are reliable, secure, and compliant with industry standards.

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

Embedded Firmware Engineer (C/C++) – Defence Systems

This role involves hands-on embedded firmware development and testing, working closely with a multi-disciplinary engineering team to ensure that software, hardware, and mechanical elements function correctly in real-world conditions. You'll be responsible for setting up tests, debugging issues, and improving testing processes in an Agile environment.

Standard 8 Canterbury, United Kingdom £50,000 – £55,000 pa
On-site Permanent Clearance Required

Field Service Engineer, Medical Diagnostic Systems

Field Service Engineer, Medical Diagnostic SystemsOverall Earnings £60,000+Basic Salary Up To £52,000OvertimeOn Call Allowance10% BonusCompany Car (Electric Or Hybrid)PensionHealthcareLife InsurancePhone, LaptopHolidays** The role will involve working one weekend in four (during this week you will receive two alternative days off...

TRS Consulting Bristol, Bristol (county), United Kingdom £52,000 pa

Field Service Engineer, Medical Diagnostic Systems

Field Service Engineer, Medical Diagnostic SystemsOverall Earnings £60,000+Basic Salary Up To £52,000OvertimeOn Call Allowance10% BonusCompany Car (Electric Or Hybrid)PensionHealthcareLife InsurancePhone, LaptopHolidays** The role will involve working one weekend in four (during this week you will receive two alternative days off...

TRS Consulting Bath, Somerset, TA7 8PH, United Kingdom £52,000 pa

Control System Engineer

Job DescriptionControl Systems EngineerFull timeBristolWhy join Rolls-Royce?At Rolls-Royce we are proud to be a business that has truly helped to shape the modern world and are committed to always being a force for progress; powering, protecting and connecting people everywhere.By...

Rolls Royce Bristol, United Kingdom

Controls System Engineer

The role involves designing and implementing software for industrial control systems, programming PLCs and HMIs, integrating systems across multiple devices, and supporting commissioning activities at customer sites. The position requires strong experience with industrial control systems and programming, as well as the ability to produce comprehensive technical documentation.

Executive Network Group Birmingham, United Kingdom £55,000 – £60,000 pa
On-site Permanent

communication system engineer

A Joint Venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), Thales Alenia Space is a global space manufacturer delivering, for more than 40 years, high-tech solutions for telecommunications, navigation, Earth Observation, environmental management, exploration, science and orbital infrastructures. Thanks to our...

Thales Alenia Space Italy

E2E System Engineer

A Joint Venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), Thales Alenia Space is a global space manufacturer delivering, for more than 40 years, high-tech solutions for telecommunications, navigation, Earth Observation, environmental management, exploration, science and orbital infrastructures. Thanks to our...

Thales Alenia Space Italy
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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