Computer Vision Team Lead - Space Robotics & Autonomy

Holt Executive; Wytham; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm in the UK is seeking an experienced Computer Vision engineer to lead a high-performing team. The role focuses on developing real-time image processing software for spacecraft. Ideal candidates have over 5 years of experience in computer vision and leadership. The position offers flexible hybrid working, 25 days annual leave, and private healthcare benefits.

Benefits

Flexible hybrid working

25 days annual leave

Private healthcare

Life insurance

Relocation and visa support

Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on experience in computer vision algorithm design and implementation.
• 3+ years leading or mentoring a technical team.
• Familiarity with modern software development practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of Computer Vision engineers, providing technical guidance and mentorship.
• Design and implement computer vision modules for spacecraft navigation and autonomy.
• Develop and benchmark algorithms for pose estimation and tracking.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-solving

Communication

Organisational skills

Programming in Python

Programming in C/C++

Deep learning

Sensor fusion

Education

Degree (BSc/MSc) in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Robotics

Tools

OpenCV

TensorFlow

PyTorch

Git

Job description

Are you an experienced Computer Vision engineer ready to take the next step in your career? This is an opportunity to lead a high-performing Computer Vision & Robotics team developing real-time image processing and autonomy software for spacecraft and ground systems.

You'll play a key role in advancing technologies that enable close-proximity operations and on-orbit servicing, designing algorithms for object detection, tracking, and pose estimation in some of the most challenging environments imaginable.

What You'll Do

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead a team of Computer Vision engineers, providing technical guidance and mentorship.
• Oversee project delivery, ensuring quality, performance, and timely execution.
• Collaborate with GNC, Software, and Systems teams across multiple mission projects.
• Foster innovation and continuous learning within a collaborative engineering culture.

Technical Responsibilities

• Design and implement computer vision modules for spacecraft navigation and autonomy.
• Develop and benchmark algorithms for pose estimation, tracking, and visual perception.
• Deliver efficient, high-quality CV software suitable for real-time and safety-critical applications.
• Contribute to simulation, verification, and validation of vision-based navigation systems.

About You

• Degree (BSc/MSc) in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Robotics, or similar.
• 5+ years of hands‑on experience in computer vision algorithm design and implementation.
• 3+ years leading or mentoring a technical team.
• Strong programming skills in Python, C/C++, or Matlab, with experience in OpenCV, TensorFlow, or PyTorch.
• Solid understanding of deep learning, sensor fusion, and image-based navigation.
• Excellent problem‑solving, communication, and organisational skills.
• Familiarity with version control (Git) and modern software development practices.
• A passion for space systems and a desire to shape the next generation of autonomous spacecraft.

Desirable:

• Experience in vision-based navigation for space or robotics applications.
• Knowledge of rigid‑body dynamics, kinematics, and embedded systems development.
• Experience in CI/CD, TDD, and real-time or safety‑critical environments.

What's On Offer

• Flexible hybrid working around core hours
• 25 days annual leave (rising with service) + bank holidays
• Private healthcare, life insurance, and long‑term sick pay
• Optional 9/75 working pattern
• Relocation and visa support (where applicable)
• State‑of‑the‑art facilities and a genuinely collaborative environment
• Regular team and social events

This is a unique opportunity to lead cutting‑edge work at the intersection of computer vision, robotics, and space, contributing directly to technologies that are shaping a sustainable future in orbit.

TT