At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop a dynamic engineering team in cutting-edge space technology.
- Company: Join Foundational, a pioneering spacetech company transforming satellite tracking.
- Benefits: Enjoy EMI share options, 25 days annual leave, and enhanced parental leave.
- Other info: Work in a vibrant London office with a collaborative team and regular socials.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the space industry with innovative technology.
- Qualifications: Senior engineering leadership experience in complex hardware and software systems.
The predicted salary is between 81000 - 99000 £ per year.
This is a future role. We're building a shortlist now and will contact you when it opens.
About us
Foundational is building the most precise picture of Earth and orbit, using lasers fired from the ground. We call it ground truth for orbit. We design and run low-cost, autonomous satellite laser ranging stations. They measure the distance to satellites with extreme precision, day and night. Our data platform turns those measurements into tracking data and orbit products for satellite operators, space agencies and governments. We also build our own flight-proven laser retroreflector arrays, so any satellite can be tracked. Our station network is expanding across continents. The data supports resilient navigation, Earth observation and the safe, sustainable use of space. We're a small, fast-moving team of engineers, scientists and operators in London. We're backed by venture investors and supported by ESA, the UK Space Agency, and Innovate UK.
Position Overview
London · Full time · On-site
You’ll lead our engineering team as it grows across hardware, optics and software. You’ll turn our technology into stations and products that are delivered reliably and at scale.
What you’ll do
- Lead, hire and develop engineers across disciplines
- Own engineering delivery: planning, milestones and resourcing
- Build design review, requirements, test and configuration processes that stay fast
- Take station builds from prototype to repeatable production
- Work with the CTO on architecture and the technical roadmap
- Support customer and agency programmes, including ESA reviews
What you’ll bring
- Senior engineering leadership delivering complex hardware and software systems
- A background in space, defence, scientific instruments or similar
- A record of growing teams and delivery processes at a fast-moving company
- Systems engineering experience
Nice to have
- Optical or laser systems
- ECSS or ESA programmes
- Scaling up production
- Eligibility for UK security clearance
What We Offer
- A high-impact role with real ownership at an early-stage, venture-backed spacetech company
- EMI share options (UK employees)
- 25 Days Annual Leave + Bank Holidays
- Enhanced Parental Leave
- Cycle to work schemes
- Work alongside engineers and scientists across optics, lasers, software and astrodynamics
- Offices in central London, with snacks, tea, coffee and regular socials
We actively champion underrepresented groups and seek to bridge gaps in our workforce. Building the best team is our priority.
Head of Engineering employer: Lumi Space
Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and collaboration in the heart of the tech industry. As a Controls Engineer, you'll be part of a dynamic team dedicated to developing cutting-edge control systems, with ample opportunities for professional growth and learning. Our inclusive work culture encourages creativity and supports diversity, making it an ideal environment for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Engineering
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Head of Engineering role you’re after at Lumi Space.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at Lumi Space a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Lumi Space.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Head of Engineering at Lumi Space, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Engineering
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Head of Engineering, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Lumi Space a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Lumi Space specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Lumi Space
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Lumi Space, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Lumi Space want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
