Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and development of satellite control systems for groundbreaking space missions.
- Company: Exciting deep-tech space startup with a mission to revolutionise satellite operations.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, equity stake, and hands-on R&D experience.
- Why this job: Join a pioneering team and make history with the first sustained commercial ULEO mission.
- Qualifications: Experience in spacecraft ADCS/AOCS and strong skills in MATLAB/Simulink.
- Other info: Work directly with founders in a dynamic, collaborative environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
AOCS Engineer at a Deep Tech Space Startup | Reading, UK | Competitive Salary plus Equity
Many engineers spend their careers working on systems that were proven decades ago by others. This role is different. I’m working with a UK deep-tech space startup preparing to launch the first satellite to sustain commercial operations at 200km, about one-third the altitude of conventional LEO. There is no commercial playbook for this. They need an AOCS/ADCS Engineer who can take full ownership of this subsystem, from developing algorithms to on-orbit calibration. The mission is real, the timeline is active, and this role is important.
What the role actually looks like:
- Lead ADCS architecture design for ULEO conditions
- Develop and tune attitude determination & control algorithms
- Integrate hardware and run HIL testing at their Reading facility
- Support post-launch operations and anomaly response
- Work directly alongside the founders and a 30-person team with ESA, defence, and multi-satellite pedigree
This position is about 60% design and algorithm work, and 40% hands-on integration and testing. You’ll report directly to the CEO and CTO, both of whom are deeply technical, with no middle management.
You’ll thrive here if you:
- Have hands-on spacecraft ADCS/AOCS experience
- Are strong on attitude determination algorithms and MATLAB/Simulink
- Have integrated sensors (star trackers, IMUs, reaction wheels)
- Want to own something, not just execute on someone else’s design
- Can be on-site in Reading four days a week (this is non-negotiable because the work requires lab access)
What’s on offer:
- Competitive salary
- Equity stake
- Real R&D, which the team describes as “a PhD on steroids, with more freedom and more funding”
- Be part of the first sustained commercial ULEO mission in history
If you’ve been looking for a role where your work truly determines the success of a satellite mission, this is it.
Engineer service in Reading employer: Akaina Talent
Contact Detail:
Akaina Talent Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineer service in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the space tech industry, especially those who work at startups. Use LinkedIn to connect and engage with them; you never know who might have a lead on that AOCS Engineer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got experience with MATLAB/Simulink or ADCS/AOCS systems, create a portfolio or a project showcase. This can really set you apart when you’re chatting with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings. Reach out directly to companies you’re interested in, like our deep-tech space startup. Express your enthusiasm and ask if they have any upcoming opportunities.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay flexible and open-minded. The startup environment is dynamic, so be ready to adapt and take on various roles. This could mean diving into hands-on integration and testing, which is crucial for the mission's success!
We think you need these skills to ace Engineer service in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Space Tech: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for space technology shine through. We want to see that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you’re genuinely excited about being part of a deep-tech space startup and contributing to groundbreaking missions.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your hands-on experience with ADCS/AOCS systems in your application. We’re looking for someone who can take ownership, so be specific about your past projects and how they relate to the role. Use examples that demonstrate your skills in attitude determination algorithms and integration.
Keep It Clear and Concise: While we love a good story, keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to see your qualifications at a glance. Remember, we’re busy working on exciting projects, so clarity is key!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and being part of this incredible mission.
How to prepare for a job interview at Akaina Talent
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your AOCS/ADCS knowledge. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with spacecraft systems, especially attitude determination algorithms and MATLAB/Simulink. The interviewers will want to see that you can not only talk the talk but also walk the walk.
✨Show Your Passion for Innovation
This role is all about breaking new ground in space technology. Share examples of how you've taken ownership of projects in the past and your enthusiasm for working on cutting-edge solutions. They’re looking for someone who’s excited about the mission, so let that passion shine through!
✨Prepare for Technical Challenges
Expect some technical questions or even practical tests during the interview. Brush up on your integration skills and be ready to discuss how you would approach HIL testing and anomaly response. Practising problem-solving scenarios can really help you stand out.
✨Be Ready to Collaborate
Since you'll be working closely with the founders and a small team, demonstrate your ability to collaborate effectively. Share experiences where teamwork led to successful outcomes, and show that you’re keen to contribute to a tight-knit group focused on a common goal.