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- Tasks: Lead mission operations for exciting space projects and mentor junior engineers.
- Company: Dynamic space engineering team in Harwell with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Flexible working, 25 days leave, private healthcare, and relocation support.
- Why this job: Join a cutting-edge team shaping the future of sustainable space missions.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering and 5-10 years in satellite operations.
- Other info: Innovative environment with opportunities for career growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
A fantastic opportunity has arisen for an experienced Senior Mission Operations Engineer to join a growing and dynamic space engineering team in Harwell, supporting current and future orbital missions. This position offers the chance to take a leading role in all phases of mission operations, from feasibility and early development, through LEOP, routine operations, and end-of-life management. It’s a broad and varied role that combines responsibilities across mission planning, spacecraft operations, systems engineering, and mission management. You’ll be part of a small, highly skilled team developing and operating next-generation space missions — with the freedom to innovate, drive improvements, and shape the operational approach across a growing fleet of spacecraft.
What You’ll Do:
- Act as an operations technical lead across multiple missions and projects.
- Provide mentorship and guidance to less experienced operations engineers.
- Perform real-time spacecraft operations during routine and critical mission phases.
- Develop and maintain mission operations procedures, validation tests, and tools.
- Contribute to planning, scheduling, and coordination with spacecraft engineering, flight dynamics, and ground systems teams.
- Prepare mission documentation, including user manuals and operations plans.
- Support development of mission operations concepts and operability requirements.
- Lead anomaly investigations, performance monitoring, and trend analysis.
- Participate in 24/7 operations shifts during key mission events as required.
What You’ll Bring:
- Degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
- 5–10 years of satellite industry experience, ideally in real-time spacecraft operations for LEO missions.
- Strong understanding of satellite subsystems (AOCS/GNC or OBDH advantageous).
- Hands-on experience with mission control systems, operations tools, and simulators.
- Proven ability to perform under pressure and manage anomalies calmly and effectively.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to develop and deliver innovative operations concepts for multi-satellite missions.
- Confident communicator, fluent in English (CEFR Level B2 / TOEIC 700+).
Desirable Skills:
- Experience with SCOS-2000 mission control systems.
- Knowledge of systems engineering principles for operations.
- Familiarity with formation flying or close-proximity satellite operations.
- Understanding of flight dynamics, orbital mechanics, and ECSS operations standards.
What’s on Offer:
- Flexible and hybrid working environment.
- Opportunities to work on cutting-edge space missions and technologies.
- Relocation and visa sponsorship support where applicable.
- 25 days’ annual leave (increasing with service) plus bank holidays.
- Private healthcare, life insurance, and long-term sick pay.
- Modern facilities including new office and cleanroom.
- Friendly, collaborative, and international team culture.
If you’re passionate about space operations, thrive in dynamic mission environments, and want to play a key role in shaping the future of sustainable space missions, we’d love to hear from you.
Senior Mission Operations Engineer in England employer: Holt Executive
Contact Detail:
Holt Executive Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Mission Operations Engineer in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the space industry, especially those who work at companies you're interested in. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info on job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to mission operations. Think about your past experiences and how they relate to the role. We want to hear your stories about problem-solving and teamwork!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion for space! Whether it's through personal projects, blogs, or social media, let us see your enthusiasm for the field. It’s a great way to stand out and demonstrate your commitment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Mission Operations Engineer in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Mission Operations Engineer role. Highlight your relevant experience in spacecraft operations and any specific projects that align with what we do at StudySmarter.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about space operations and how your skills can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention any innovative ideas you have for mission operations!
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, give examples of how you've tackled challenges in past roles. We love candidates who can stay calm under pressure and think on their feet, especially during critical mission phases.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in our dynamic team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Holt Executive
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your satellite industry knowledge, especially real-time spacecraft operations for LEO missions. Familiarise yourself with mission control systems and tools, as well as the specific subsystems mentioned in the job description. This will show that you're not just interested but also well-prepared.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Be ready to discuss past experiences where you've successfully managed anomalies or solved complex problems under pressure. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, making it clear how your actions led to positive outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since this role involves mentoring and collaborating with a small team, highlight your teamwork and leadership experiences. Share examples of how you've guided less experienced engineers or contributed to a collaborative environment, showing that you can thrive in a dynamic setting.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready about the company's future missions, team dynamics, or operational challenges. This not only shows your genuine interest but also gives you insight into whether the company culture aligns with your values and career goals.
