Spacecraft Operations Engineer (Glasgow, UK)

Spacecraft Operations Engineer (Glasgow, UK)

Glasgow Full-Time 42750 - 52250 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead spacecraft commissioning, monitor performance, and enhance operational efficiency.
  • Company: Join AAC Clyde Space, a leader in small satellite technologies.
  • Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Dynamic environment with excellent career growth opportunities and a focus on diversity.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in the space industry and work with cutting-edge technology.
  • Qualifications: Experience in spacecraft operations and strong problem-solving skills required.

The predicted salary is between 42750 - 52250 £ per year.

We are seeking a proactive and highly motivated Spacecraft Operations Engineer to join our growing team.

In this role, you will lead spacecraft commissioning activities for new missions, command and monitor spacecraft, and plan and execute daily mission operations.

Key responsibilities include conducting in-orbit testing and validation of newly launched spacecraft, monitoring mission performance and KPIs, and driving continuous improvements to operational efficiency.

You will work closely with our ground segment team to develop and enhance automation capabilities, investigate and resolve in-orbit anomalies, develop operational procedures and documentation, and support spacecraft integration and ground test campaigns.

The ideal candidate will have experience in spacecraft operations with an Earth Observation background, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to thrive in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

Flexibility, initiative, and a collaborative mindset are essential for success in the role.

The role is based on site in Glasgow where Hybrid Working is available.

The role will require occasional ad-hoc out of hours working to resolve live issues, and rota-based on-call support during the week and on weekends.

Please note that in future, you may be required to complete a Basic Disclosure check (https://www. mygov. scot/apply-for-level-1-disclosure)

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the commissioning of our spacecrafts from launch to commencement of nominal operations.
  • Plan, prepare and execute in-orbit tests.
  • Participate in ground testing, operations rehearsals, and readiness reviews.
  • Support the design of mission‑specific ground segment systems for service and data delivery.
  • Develop and maintain operational procedures and other documentation.
  • Monitor and ensure continued operation and health of existing missions.
  • Coordinate short‑and long‑term activity plans to meet mission and customer requirements.
  • Investigate and resolve in‑orbit anomalies identify trends and implement preventive measures.
  • Take ownership of KPIs and the continual improvement of our services.
  • Report both internally, and to our customers.
  • Develop documentation and processes according to regulations and licencing requirements.

Skills Required

  • Relevant degree or equivalent work experience [KB1]
  • Ability to work flexibly, including during off‑hours or on‑call shifts.
  • Demonstrated industry experience in a similar environment
  • Proven ability to effectively identify and debug issues with existing or new software
  • Basic understanding of satellites and the space industry.
  • Technical report and procedure writing to a high standard
  • Quick thinking and ability to remain calm under pressure, for example during live satellite communication passes
  • Excellent analytical with high attention to detail and problem‑solving skills with a structured and methodical approach.
  • Confident working with stakeholders, customers and suppliers with demonstrable commercial experience
  • Excellent communication, stakeholder management and interpersonal abilities for professional settings and standards.
  • Excellent organisational and prioritisation skills, with the ability to manage multiple concurrent workstreams and projects in a dynamic, deadline‑driven environment.
  • Competent IT skills including Microsoft software.
  • Proficient in English, both verbally and written.

Skills Desired

  • Knowledge of space mission analysis and spacecraft design
  • Experience of scripting or automation tools (primarily Python)
  • Experience of RF / DSP engineering applied to space communications
  • Experience of testing or operating a spacecraft at system/mission level
  • Experience with flight dynamics, constellation management or mission planning
  • Previous experience of working with small/medium sized company
  • About Aac Clyde Space

AAC Clyde Space provides small satellite technologies and services that help governments, businesses and institutions access high-quality data from space.

Covering satellite components, mission services and space‑based data delivery, the company offers end‑to‑end solutions that turn space‑based intelligence into real‑world impact.

Applications include weather monitoring, maritime safety, security and defence, agriculture and forestry.

AAC Clyde Space is headquartered in Uppsala, Sweden, with operations also in the UK, Netherlands, South Africa and the USA.

The company’s shares are traded on Nasdaq First North Premier Growth Market in Stockholm (Ticker: AAC) and on the US OTCQX Market (OTCQX: ACCMF).

Some of our clients include Horizon Technologies, Orbcomm, OHB Sweden, Intuitive Machines, Clearspace, Astroscale, the United States Airforce Academy, UK Space Agency, Swedish National Space Agency, European Space Agency and NASA.

Data Protection Policy

As part of our recruitment process, we collect and process personal data relating to job applicants.

We are committed to being transparent about how we collect and use this data, please click here to see our job applicant privacy notice.

Right to Work

AAC Clyde Space has a legal responsibility to ensure that all its employees have the legal right to live and work in the EU or the country in which they plan to work.

Therefore, if you are made an offer of employment, this will be subject to AAC Clyde Space verifying that you are eligible to work in that country before you start work.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We aim to create a positive recruitment and selection experience across every part of our business.

The company is committed to handling applications to a consistently high standard and all candidates with dignity and respect.

Those involved in the recruitment and selection process will act with integrity, objectivity and professionalism.

We are committed to equal opportunities for all and to have diversity reflected within our global workforce.

We believe its diversity and inclusion will allow for greater creativity and innovation to help AAC Clyde Space Group deliver the vision to help improve life on earth.

Openness to Flexible Working

We recognise work‑life balance is important so we are open to discussions around flexible working, depending on the nature of the role and business needs.

If you would like to know more, please ask the Hiring Manager during any recruitment process that you may be involved in.

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Spacecraft Operations Engineer (Glasgow, UK) employer: AAC Clyde Space

AAC Clyde Space is an exceptional employer for a Spacecraft Operations Engineer, offering a dynamic work environment in Glasgow that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a strong commitment to employee growth, the company provides opportunities for professional development and flexible working arrangements, ensuring a healthy work-life balance. Employees benefit from being part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to making a real-world impact through cutting-edge satellite technologies and services.

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Contact Details:

AAC Clyde Space Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Spacecraft Operations Engineer (Glasgow, UK)

Join Aerospace Forums and Groups

Get involved in aerospace engineering forums and online communities, like the AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics). It's a great way to meet industry peers and stay updated on job openings and trends in the field.

Attend Industry Conferences

Keep an eye on upcoming aerospace conferences and events where you can network with professionals and showcase your interest. Events like the Farnborough International Airshow are not just about flying machines; they're a goldmine for connections and potential job leads.

Spotlight Your Projects

Make sure to highlight any hands-on experience or projects on your portfolio that showcase your skills in aerospace engineering. Employers love seeing practical applications of theoretical knowledge. Show us what you've got!

Apply Directly on Company Websites

When you find companies you want to work for, head straight to their careers page to apply for full-time roles, like the one with AAC Clyde Space for a Spacecraft Operations Engineer (Glasgow, UK). This often puts your application in front of the right people faster than just waiting for job boards!

We think you need these skills to ace Spacecraft Operations Engineer (Glasgow, UK)

Spacecraft Operations
In-Orbit Testing
Mission Performance Monitoring
KPI Management
Operational Efficiency Improvement
Automation Development
Anomaly Investigation and Resolution

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for the aerospace engineering role at AAC Clyde Space, make sure to highlight your technical expertise. Include specific software skills, like CAD tools or simulation software, and any relevant engineering projects you’ve worked on. This is your chance to really shine and showcase your engineering toolkit!

Don't Skip Your Projects!:Include a section in your CV dedicated to projects that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities in aerospace engineering. Whether it's a university project, an internship, or personal work, we love seeing how you’ve applied your skills in real-world scenarios. Make it clear what your role was and the impact of the project.

Show Your Passion in Your Cover Letter:At AAC Clyde Space, we're not just looking for skills – we want to know why you’re passionate about aerospace engineering. Use your cover letter to express what excites you about aviation technology and your career goals. Share any relevant experiences or inspirations that have led you to apply for this full-time position.

Tailor Your CV for Aerospace:Make sure your CV is specifically tailored to aerospace engineering. Focus on your education, any certifications, and your work experience, ensuring you highlight aspects that relate directly to the role. Don’t forget to mention any internships or apprenticeships that have given you hands-on experience.

How to prepare for a job interview at AAC Clyde Space

Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge

Aerospace engineering is all about technical precision, so make sure you’re comfortable with key concepts like aerodynamics, propulsion, and materials science. We recommend going through any relevant coursework or projects you’ve worked on – these real-world examples can illustrate your understanding during the interview with AAC Clyde Space.

Showcase Your Projects with Confidence

Make sure to have a portfolio ready that details any significant projects you've worked on, whether it’s a group assignment or a personal endeavour. Be prepared to discuss the challenges you faced, the tools you used, like CAD software, and what you learned from the experience, as this will show your problem-solving skills in action.

Prepare for Technical Interviews

Expect some technical questions or even problem-solving exercises during your interview with AAC Clyde Space. Get familiar with design challenges or theoretical problems related to aerospace; this can range from calculating lift and drag forces to materials selection under stress. Practising these can help you feel more at ease when faced with tricky questions.

Emphasise Your Passion and Teamwork Skills

As a full-time candidate, it’s crucial to convey your passion for aerospace engineering and your ability to work in teams. Highlight any group projects or internships you've done, focusing on how you collaborated with others to achieve a goal. Companies like AAC Clyde Space love seeing candidates who not only have technical skills but also fit well within their team culture.