At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team testing spacecraft systems and ensuring they perform flawlessly before launch.
- Company: Belcan, a leader in aerospace engineering with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, free parking, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential for travel and shift work in a high-tech environment.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of space missions and work with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: HNC in Electrical Engineering or 5 years relevant experience required.
The predicted salary is between 74000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: Oxford
Contract: 6 Months
Rate: £37/hr Umbrella Inside IR35 (£27.66 PAYE)
Shift Uplift: Up to 20% depending on pattern
Clearance: UK National Eyes Only
Work Pattern: On-site, shift work including weekends
Parking: Free parking available (15-minute walk from site)
Role Summary
The AIT Electrical Test Operations Engineer plays a central role in the electrical testing and validation of spacecraft. This position supports the full test lifecycle, from engineering bench testing through to flight spacecraft verification, ensuring mission-critical systems perform flawlessly before launch. The engineer operates within a high-tech cleanroom environment, executing complex test procedures, supporting integration activities, and contributing to the success of major space programmes.
Key Responsibilities
- Executes electrical and functional test procedures on engineering test benches and flight spacecraft
- Operates Central Checkout Systems (CCS), EGSE, and SCOE to run automated and manual test sequences
- Prepares electrical test setups, performs measurements, and validates test aids and breakout boxes
- Updates test procedures, raises work orders, and produces detailed test reports
- Supports development and debugging of Automated Test Procedures (ATP) using bespoke high-level scripting
- Conducts electrical integration and testing at unit, subsystem, and system level
- Provides electrical support during environmental and launch test campaigns
- Contributes to the design and manufacture of electrical test aids, including drawings and manufacturing packs
- Assists with departmental operations such as calibration recall, logistics, and export rating tasks
Knowledge & Technical Expertise
- Proficient with electrical and RF test equipment: DMMs, oscilloscopes, signal generators, power meters, network analysers, data bus monitors, etc.
- Understanding of spacecraft electrical systems and harnessing
- Awareness of spacecraft subsystems such as Data Handling, 1553, SpaceWire, AOCS, Power Systems, Thermal Control, and more
- Experience updating CCS test sequences/scripts
- Familiarity with Windows and Linux environments
- Knowledge of cleanroom disciplines
- Ability to support 24/7 shift patterns and UK travel for test campaigns
Qualifications & Experience
- Minimum HNC or NVQ Level 4 in Electrical Engineering, or 5 years relevant experience
- Demonstrated experience in:
- Electrical integration on spacecraft or complex test benches
- Executing and updating CCS-based test sequences
- Electrical fault investigation and debugging
- Supporting environmental and launch test campaigns
- Producing test documentation, work orders, and reports
Ideal Backgrounds
Candidates from the following sectors typically bring strong transferable skills: Space, Aerospace, Communications, High-Tech Manufacturing.
Interview Process
One virtual interview followed by an on-site face-to-face interview.
Why This Role Matters
This position places the engineer at the forefront of spacecraft development, contributing directly to missions that will operate in orbit. It offers exposure to advanced test systems, high-precision engineering, and the rare opportunity to support environmental and launch campaigns.
This vacancy is being advertised by Belcan.
(AIT) Electrical Test Operations Engineer employer: Belcan Technical Recruiting Ltd
Contact Detail:
Belcan Technical Recruiting Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land (AIT) Electrical Test Operations Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the aerospace and engineering sectors on LinkedIn. Join relevant groups, attend webinars, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge. Make sure you can talk confidently about electrical systems and testing procedures. Practise common interview questions and think of examples from your experience that showcase your skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply and forget! Follow up on your applications after a week or so. A quick email expressing your continued interest can keep you on their radar and show that you’re genuinely keen on the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Check out our website for the latest job postings. We often have roles that might not be advertised elsewhere. Plus, applying directly through us can give you a better chance of standing out!
We think you need these skills to ace (AIT) Electrical Test Operations Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the AIT Electrical Test Operations Engineer role. Highlight your experience with electrical testing, spacecraft systems, and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention your familiarity with CCS test sequences and your experience in high-tech environments.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When filling out your application, be sure to showcase your relevant experience clearly. Whether it's working with electrical test equipment or supporting launch campaigns, we want to see how your past roles have prepared you for this position.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s straightforward, and you can easily attach your CV and cover letter. Plus, it helps us keep track of all applications in one place!
How to prepare for a job interview at Belcan Technical Recruiting Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of electrical systems and spacecraft subsystems. Familiarise yourself with the specific test equipment mentioned in the job description, like DMMs and oscilloscopes. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to talk about your previous experience with electrical integration and testing. Have specific examples ready that highlight your skills in executing test procedures and debugging. This will help demonstrate your hands-on expertise and how it aligns with the job requirements.
✨Ask Smart Questions
During the interview, don’t hesitate to ask insightful questions about the team’s current projects or the technologies they use. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
✨Be Ready for Shift Work
Since this role involves 24/7 shift patterns, be prepared to discuss your flexibility and willingness to work weekends. Highlight any previous experience you have with shift work, as this can reassure them that you’re ready for the demands of the job.