At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop advanced spacecraft systems, ensuring top-notch performance and integration.
- Company: Fast-growing space tech company with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, equity options, comprehensive healthcare, and relocation support.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth across the satellite lifecycle.
- Why this job: Join a pioneering team and work on exciting projects that shape the future of space technology.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering and experience in spacecraft systems required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
An innovative and fast-growing space technology company is seeking an AOCS Engineer to support the design, development, integration, and operation of advanced spacecraft platforms. This role plays a critical part across the full satellite lifecycle - from early architecture and algorithm development through hardware integration, validation, and on-orbit operations.
Key Responsibilities
- System Architecture & Design: Lead the development and evolution of the spacecraft AOCS architecture. Design and integrate sensors, actuators, reaction wheels, magnetorquers, and control algorithms. Ensure system performance meets mission-level pointing and stability requirements.
- Algorithm Development: Design and implement advanced attitude determination and control algorithms. Support multiple pointing modes and control scenarios. Optimise system performance for precision and robustness.
- Simulation & Modelling: Characterise sensors and actuators through modelling and simulation. Develop and maintain spacecraft simulators for system validation. Conduct trade-off analyses to optimise AOCS performance.
- Hardware Integration: Specify, evaluate, and select AOCS components (e.g., star trackers, IMUs, sun sensors, magnetometers, reaction wheels). Integrate AOCS hardware with spacecraft subsystems. Support system-level verification activities.
- Testing & Validation: Develop and execute hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) tests. Perform ground-based simulations and commissioning activities. Troubleshoot integration and performance issues.
- On-Orbit Operations Support: AOCS calibration and commissioning. Assist with manoeuvre planning and fault management. Provide technical support during mission operations.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or related field (Master's preferred)
- 2-5+ years' experience in spacecraft AOCS/ADCS or GNC
- Strong understanding of closed-loop control systems, orbital mechanics, and spacecraft dynamics
- Experience with sensors (IMUs, magnetometers, star trackers, sun sensors) and actuators (reaction wheels, magnetorquers)
- Proficiency in C/C++ for embedded systems
- Experience with MATLAB and/or Python for modelling and simulation
- Experience with hardware integration, system validation, and testing
What's Offered
- Competitive salary
- Equity participation
- Comprehensive private healthcare (including dental and optical)
- Relocation package
- Visa sponsorship
- Opportunity to work across the full satellite lifecycle in a high-ownership engineering environment
AOCS Engineer employer: IO
Join an innovative and fast-growing space technology company as an AOCS Engineer, where you'll play a pivotal role in the design and operation of advanced spacecraft platforms. Enjoy a dynamic work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration, alongside competitive salaries, equity participation, and comprehensive private healthcare. With opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work across the full satellite lifecycle, this is an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in the aerospace sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land AOCS Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the aerospace industry on LinkedIn or at events. We can’t stress enough how personal connections can lead to job opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your projects, especially those related to AOCS or spacecraft dynamics. We love seeing practical applications of your knowledge, so make it easy for potential employers to see what you can do.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common technical questions and scenarios related to AOCS. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to build confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who want to make an impact in the space tech world.
We think you need these skills to ace AOCS Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the AOCS Engineer role. Highlight your experience with spacecraft AOCS/ADCS or GNC, and don’t forget to mention your skills in C/C++ and MATLAB/Python. We want to see how your background fits our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about space technology and how your skills align with our mission. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Showcase Relevant Projects:If you've worked on any projects related to spacecraft systems, make sure to include them in your application. We’re keen to see your hands-on experience with sensors, actuators, and control algorithms. It’s all about demonstrating your expertise!
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 the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at IO
✨Know Your AOCS Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of attitude and orbit control systems. Be ready to discuss specific algorithms you've worked on, and how they relate to the role. This shows you're not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled challenges in hardware integration or system validation. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. This will help demonstrate your analytical thinking and troubleshooting abilities.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Simulation Tools
Since modelling and simulation are key parts of the job, be ready to discuss your experience with tools like MATLAB or Python. If you can, bring along a project or example that highlights your skills in this area. It’ll make you stand out!
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's projects and future missions. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you. Plus, it gives you a chance to engage with the interviewers on a deeper level.
