Vice President of Engineering

JCA Associates; Abu Dhabi Emirate; On-site; AED 300,000 - 500,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading space technology entity is seeking a VP of Engineering based in the UAE to lead satellite engineering efforts. This executive role involves managing the full lifecycle of satellite systems, overseeing multidisciplinary teams, and shaping the strategic direction of space systems programs. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in satellite systems engineering and a strong leadership background.

Qualifications

• At least 15 years of experience in satellite systems engineering.
• Experience leading large, multidisciplinary teams.
• Deep technical understanding of satellite payloads and subsystems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the design, development, and delivery of complex satellite systems.
• Lead cross-functional engineering teams across various disciplines.
• Ensure compliance with space and aerospace standards.

Skills

Leadership

Systems Engineering

Technical Strategy

Model-Based Systems Engineering

Education

Degree in Aerospace, Electrical, or Systems Engineering

Postgraduate qualifications (Master’s or Ph.D.)

Tools

Cameo

SysML

STK

DOORS

MATLAB / Simulink

Job description

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Head of Satellite Engineering | UAE-Based

An innovative space technology entity is seeking a VP of Engineering to lead the technical execution of its end-to-end satellite missions. This senior role offers a rare opportunity to shape the strategic and technical direction of space systems programs in one of the most ambitious space ecosystems in the world.

Role Overview

As the technical authority on all satellite engineering efforts, you will be responsible for managing the full lifecycle of satellite systems—from architecture and design through to integration, testing, and delivery. You’ll lead a multidisciplinary team of engineers working across synthetic aperture radar (SAR), signals intelligence (SIGINT), electro-optical systems, and satellite platforms. This includes bus subsystems and payload integration.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the design, development, and delivery of complex satellite systems, ensuring full alignment with mission and operational requirements.
• Lead cross-functional engineering teams across a range of disciplines including RF, thermal, power systems, ADCS, avionics, optics, and mechanical engineering.
• Guide the development and implementation of satellite system architectures, including mission concepts, payload and platform integration, and full lifecycle execution through to launch and commissioning.
• Serve as a technical interface between internal departments (R&D, product, programs) and external stakeholders (OEMs, partners, regulatory bodies, space agencies).
• Ensure compliance with rigorous space, aerospace, and defense standards related to radiation hardening, thermal management, power budgeting, and link budget analysis.
• Champion the adoption of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) practices and digital engineering tools to drive design consistency, technical rigor, and risk mitigation.
• Lead technical assessments, design audits, milestone reviews, and gate approvals across all satellite programs.
• Support strategic decision-making processes including proposals, bid reviews, and investment evaluations with accurate technical analysis and system-level inputs.
• Promote a collaborative, innovative, and quality-driven engineering culture across the organization.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Aerospace, Electrical, Systems Engineering, or a related technical discipline; postgraduate qualifications (Master’s or Ph.D.) are strongly preferred.
• At least 15 years of experience in satellite systems engineering, with a successful track record in LEO / MEO / GEO missions and payload / platform integration.
• Experience leading large, multidisciplinary teams on major space or defense satellite programs.
• Deep technical understanding of payloads and subsystems including SAR, SIGINT, electro-optical sensors, TT&C, propulsion, onboard computers, and power systems.
• Hands-on experience in mission analysis, launch interface planning, and in-orbit commissioning.
• Exposure to UAE space initiatives or other regional / national defense or government space programs is advantageous.
• Broad expertise in space systems design, systems integration, and satellite platform development.
• Proficiency in MBSE tools and frameworks such as Cameo, SysML, STK, DOORS, and MATLAB / Simulink.
• Familiarity with space qualification testing, including thermal vacuum, vibration, and EMI / EMC testing, as well as ICD and space-grade components.
• Strong leadership capability with a track record of fostering high-performance technical teams and delivering under time and budget constraints.
• Ability to engage senior stakeholders and communicate technical strategy clearly at both executive and governmental levels.
• Strategic mindset combined with practical engineering execution and problem-solving skills.

Seniority level

Seniority level

Executive

Employment type

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Staffing and Recruiting, Defense and Space Manufacturing, and Space Research and Technology

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Vice President • Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates