Future Tech Jobs Future Tech Jobs

Spacecraft Engineer Jobs

Engineers who design, build, and test the spacecraft that explore our universe. A multidisciplinary role that combines mechanical, electrical, and systems engineering.

Open roles
3
Hiring companies
2
View 3 live roles → Get an alert

Spacecraft Engineers are at the heart of the UK's space sector, working on cutting-edge projects that push the boundaries of technology and exploration. These professionals design, build, and test spacecraft, ensuring they can withstand the harsh conditions of space and perform their missions effectively. From initial concept to final launch, Spacecraft Engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to bring innovative solutions to life. They work for a range of organisations, including space agencies, aerospace companies, and research institutions, contributing to both national and international missions.

What the role does

Inside the role of a Spacecraft Engineer

A typical week for a Spacecraft Engineer is a mix of design, analysis, and testing, with a focus on ensuring the spacecraft meets all mission requirements.

  1. 01
    Conduct structural and thermal analysis of spacecraft components.
  2. 02
    Collaborate with systems engineers to integrate subsystems.
  3. 03
    Perform simulations and tests to validate design performance.
  4. 04
    Attend project meetings to review progress and address issues.
  5. 05
    Document findings and prepare reports for stakeholders.
  6. 06
    Stay updated with 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%
Small Satellite Programmes
100%
Spacecraft Subsystems (AOCS, Comms, EPS, Payloads, OBC/Software, OBDH)
100%
System-Level Requirements
100%
Industry Standards (ECSS, NASA)
100%
Spacecraft Operations
100%
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for spacecraft engineers. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior Spacecraft Engineer

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in the design and testing of spacecraft components under supervision.

  2. Level 2

    Spacecraft Engineer

    3–5 yrs

    Take ownership of specific subsystems and lead small projects.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Spacecraft Engineer

    6–10 yrs

    Manage complex projects and mentor junior engineers.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Spacecraft Engineer

    10+ yrs

    Lead major spacecraft development programmes and influence strategic decisions.

Pathway

How to become a Spacecraft Engineer

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Entry-Level Engineer

    Start with hands-on experience in design and testing, learning from senior colleagues.

  2. 2

    Specialisation

    Develop expertise in a specific area, such as structural analysis or thermal management.

  3. 3

    Project Leadership

    Take on leadership roles in smaller projects, managing teams and budgets.

  4. 4

    Senior Engineer

    Lead major subsystems and contribute to the overall spacecraft design.

  5. 5

    Principal Engineer

    Oversee entire spacecraft programmes, influencing strategic direction and innovation.

Live jobs

3 live roles

BAE Systems logo

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

In this role, you will contribute to the full lifecycle of space system development, from concept design and requirements definition to integration, verification, and mission operations. You will work closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams to ensure technical coherence and successful delivery of mission objectives, with opportunities to engage in space technology studies and R&D projects.

BAE Systems Alton, Hampshire, United Kingdom £50,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent Flexible Clearance Required
Spire logo

Senior Spacecraft Software Engineer

We are looking for aSpacecraft Software Engineer (GNSS) to join our team working at the intersection of satellite payloads, scientific computing, and data delivery systems. In this role, you'll be responsible for developing and maintaining both the flight and ground...

Spire Glasgow, Alba / Scotland, G2 1AL, United Kingdom
Spire logo

Spacecraft Embedded Software Engineer (Rust)

We are seeking an experiencedEmbedded Software Engineer (Rust)to join our Platform team (folks looking after the spacecraft). The successful candidate will play a crucial role in developing software for our satellite systems, contributing to the expansion and enhancement of our...

Spire Glasgow, Alba / Scotland, G2 1AL, United Kingdom
Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

The locations with the most live listings for this role today.

Glasgow

Location
2 open
FAQs

Common questions

  • A degree in aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering is typically required, along with relevant experience or a postgraduate qualification.

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, proficiency in CAD software, and the ability to work in multidisciplinary teams are essential.

  • You can advance from a junior role to a principal engineer, leading major projects and influencing strategic decisions.

  • Salaries vary based on experience and role. For more detailed information, refer to the salary section on this page.

Hiring spacecraft 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.