At a Glance
- Tasks: Maintain and develop electrical systems for the UK's first vertical launch spaceport.
- Company: Join SaxaVord Spaceport, a pioneering space launch facility in Shetland.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £50,000, plus great benefits and career growth.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting mission to support satellite launches and innovative technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in electrical engineering and a strong safety mindset required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Job Title
Launch Site Electrician
Location
Saxa Vord Spaceport, Unst, Shetland
Salary
Up to £50,000 dependent on experience
Who we are
Saxa Vord Spaceport is the UK’s first fully licensed vertical launch spaceport, located on the island of Unst in Shetland — the most northerly inhabited island in the UK.
We provide launch facilities, ground station services and operational infrastructure to support small satellite missions into polar and sun-synchronous orbits.
Join us on our journey to deliver launch capability to the UK.
As a Launch Site Electrician, you will be responsible for the development, maintenance and safe operation of electrical systems across the spaceport and domestic site.
This includes launch infrastructure, ground support systems, power distribution networks and safety‑critical systems that support daily operations and future launch activities.
Working within a mission‑critical environment, you will play a key role in ensuring electrical systems remain reliable, compliant and operationally ready.
You will collaborate closely with engineering teams, launch providers and external contractors to support the continued development of the UK’s leading vertical launch spaceport.
Core responsibilities
- Oversee the installation, testing and commissioning of electrical infrastructure across the spaceport and domestic site
- Maintain, inspect and troubleshoot electrical systems to ensure operational readiness and reliability
- Assist in the development and implementation of preventative maintenance schedules and procedures
- Provide rapid‑response electrical support during launch operations and other critical activities
- Support the design and implementation of electrical systems for launch pads, control centres and support facilities
- Develop and maintain power distribution networks and backup power systems
- Support integration of launch pad electrical interfaces with ground support systems
- Interpret electrical schematics, technical drawings and specifications
- Ensure compliance with relevant aerospace, industrial and electrical safety standards
- Conduct risk assessments and support hazard analysis activities
- Assist with safety audits, inspections and regulatory compliance activities
- Support grounding, lightning protection and surge protection systems
- Collaborate with mechanical, software and aerospace engineering teams
- Support the integration of telemetry, communications and control systems
- Interface with launch vehicle providers, contractors and suppliers
- Develop and execute test plans, system validation activities and fault investigations
- Document test results and recommend system improvements
- Support engineering projects from concept through to deployment
- Coordinate technical deliverables, timelines and supplier relationships
- Prepare technical reports, documentation and maintenance records
- Strong knowledge of power systems, control systems and electrical design principles
- Experience working with low‑voltage electrical infrastructure in domestic and industrial environments
- Confident working with both single‑phase and three‑phase electrical systems
- Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems and automation technologies
- Ability to diagnose and resolve complex electrical faults in operational environments
- Strong understanding of electrical safety and safe working practices
- Excellent attention to detail and a safety‑critical mindset
- Strong problem‑solving and systems‑thinking approach
- Ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary engineering teams
- Clear written and verbal technical communication skills
- Experience coordinating with contractors, suppliers and external stakeholders
- Strong organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities
- Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, Outlook and Power Point
- Ability to work flexibly, react quickly to changing priorities and manage multiple tasks simultaneously
- Understanding of aerospace or mission‑critical systems (desirable)
Qualifications & Knowledge
- Qualification at SCQF Level 9 or equivalent in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline
- Proven experience in industrial, infrastructure, utilities, construction or aerospace environments
- Excellent knowledge and understanding of current electrical standards and regulations
- Experience carrying out both commercial and domestic electrical work
- ECS Gold Card holder
- Chartered Engineer status or working towards chartership (desirable)
- Experience working in dynamic and fast‑paced operational environments
- Experience operating within highly regulated environments where safety is paramount
- Knowledge of ISO 9001 and Integrated Management Systems (IMS)
- Knowledge of Shetland logistics, remote operations or challenging supply chain environments (desirable)
- Other Requirements
- Full, clean UK driving licence
- Willingness to undergo security vetting (BPSS and higher as required)
- Ability to work in a remote island environment and adapt to changing operational requirements
- Willingness to support occasional out‑of‑hours activities during launch campaigns and critical operations
Competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience.
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Launch Site Electrician employer: SaxaVord Spaceport
SaxaVord Spaceport offers an exceptional working environment for Security Officers, combining a unique operational setting with a strong emphasis on team support and safety. Employees benefit from a structured 3 weeks on/3 weeks off schedule, allowing for a balanced work-life dynamic, while also having opportunities for professional growth within the rapidly evolving space industry. Join us to be part of a pioneering venture that values your contributions and fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Launch Site Electrician
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
✨Join Trade Associations
Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace Launch Site Electrician
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch SaxaVord Spaceport's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at SaxaVord Spaceport. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at SaxaVord Spaceport
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at SaxaVord Spaceport.
