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- Tasks: Lead the development of innovative space-based LiDAR systems and build a dynamic engineering team.
- Company: Join Spiral Blue, a pioneer in next-gen space technology with a focus on environmental management.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for growth, and the chance to work on impactful projects.
- Other info: Flexible role based in the UK with opportunities to contribute to defence-related programmes.
- Why this job: Make a real-world impact in space technology while collaborating with global leaders and partners.
- Qualifications: 5-10+ years in space systems, strong systems engineering background, and experience with LiDAR preferred.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
Spiral Blue is building next-generation space-based LiDAR and edge computing systems to enable decision-grade measurement of the Earth. Our technology supports environmental management and national security - both on Earth and in space. We have delivered multiple space missions, are actively testing LiDAR systems, and are now scaling toward our first operational Space-to-Space capability.
As we establish our UK subsidiary, we are seeking a Lead Space Systems Engineer or Engineering Manager to lead development of our LiDAR systems in the UK and build the local engineering team. This is a high-impact, high-ownership role at the core of the company’s roadmap, working closely with global leadership, partners, and government stakeholders.
An immediate priority for this role will be contributing to major programme and proposal activities, defining system architecture and execution approaches for national security and civil space applications.
In this role, you will:
- Lead end-to-end system architecture for space-based LiDAR payloads and missions.
- Drive integration across optics, electronics, software, and spacecraft systems.
- Define key technical trade-offs across performance, power, thermal, and cost.
- Support the development and qualification of optical systems for the space environment.
- Work closely with partners across defence, civil space, and research ecosystems.
This role can flex depending on experience. For a senior engineer, it will involve deep technical ownership and hands-on system design. For an engineering manager, it will involve building and leading the UK engineering team, owning delivery and execution planning, and interfacing with partners and customers at a senior level.
We are looking for candidates with 5–10+ years of experience in space systems, remote sensing, or complex hardware systems, with a strong background in systems engineering and experience across disciplines such as optics, avionics, and software. Experience with LiDAR, optical payloads, or Earth observation systems is highly valued, as is experience in defence or national security programmes and a track record of delivering hardware systems from concept to deployment.
This role is based in the UK, and candidates must be able to work in the UK and contribute to defence-related programmes. If you’re interested in building cutting-edge space systems with real-world impact, we’d love to hear from you.
Lead Space Systems Engineer / Engineering Manager (LiDAR) - UK in Harwell employer: Spiral Blue
Contact Detail:
Spiral Blue Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Space Systems Engineer / Engineering Manager (LiDAR) - UK in Harwell
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the space systems and LiDAR fields on LinkedIn or at industry events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can get you in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and soft skills. We recommend practising common interview questions related to systems engineering and leadership. Show them you’re not just a tech whiz, but also a great team player!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your passion for space and technology! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your enthusiasm shine through. We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about contributing to cutting-edge projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Space Systems Engineer / Engineering Manager (LiDAR) - UK in Harwell
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight your experience in space systems, LiDAR, and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with 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 space technology and how you can contribute to our mission at Spiral Blue. Keep it engaging and personal.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t shy away from showcasing your technical expertise. Whether it's systems engineering or your experience with optical payloads, we want to know what makes you stand out in these areas.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you get all the updates directly from us. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Spiral Blue
✨Know Your LiDAR Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of LiDAR systems and their applications. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with the specific technologies Spiral Blue is developing, especially in relation to environmental management and national security.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
If you're applying for the Engineering Manager role, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully built and led teams in the past. Highlight your approach to mentoring engineers and managing projects, as this will be crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect in-depth technical questions about system architecture, integration across various disciplines, and trade-offs in performance, power, thermal, and cost. Practise articulating your thought process clearly, as this will demonstrate your expertise and problem-solving skills.
✨Understand the Company’s Vision
Familiarise yourself with Spiral Blue's mission and recent projects. Being able to discuss how your role fits into their roadmap and contributes to their goals will show your genuine interest and commitment to the company’s success.