Future Programmes, Earth Observation and Science Placement (12 months)

Airbus Defence and Space; Stevenage; Hybrid; GBP 21,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

37 hours per week

Flexible working hours

Hybrid working options

Half day Fridays!

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Job summary

Airbus Defence and Space Limited invites undergraduates in aerospace-related studies to join a 12-month placement in Stevenage. You will work with the Earth Observation and Science teams, supporting studies, system architecture, and proposals while gaining hands-on experience in the full lifecycle of future mission concepts.

The role requires a motivated student with strong analytical and communication skills, familiarity with CAD/MATLAB and MS Office, and an interest in space.

Qualifications

• Undergraduates only for the whole duration of the placement.
• CV and Cover Letter outlining motivation and suitability required.
• Pursuing a degree in Aerospace Engineering, Physics or similar.
• Interest in working in the space industry required.
• Experience from projects is a plus.
• Proficient in MS Office and Google Workspace.
• CAD, MATLAB or programming may be advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Support technical studies and system architecture definition.
• Perform performance analysis and assist with budgeting.
• Support proposal development with documentation and presentations.
• Engage with clients and collaborate with international Airbus teams.

Skills

Problem solving

Communication

Analytical mindset

Teamwork

MS Office proficiency

CAD

MATLAB

Programming basics

Education

Undergraduate student in Aerospace Engineering, Physics or similar

Tools

CAD

MATLAB

Microsoft Office

Google Workspace

Job description

Job Description:

Start date: 19 July 2027

Location

Stevenage

Duration

12 months

Applications close on 27 September 2026

We love your interest in joining Airbus! There is no limit on the number of positions you can apply for, however, please be aware that you can only progress in the selection process for one position at a time. We recommend reviewing all available opportunities and applying to those that best match your experience and aspirations.

AI Guidance:

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Benefits:

Salary: £24,500

37 hours per week // Flexible working hours // Hybrid working options available depending on the role // Half day Fridays!* // 25 days holiday plus bank holidays

• subject to completing full hours prior to this

About us:

Join Airbus on the most exciting space missions of the future, as part of the Future Programmes & Proposals group in Stevenage, UK. Throughout your placement you will be directly involved in running studies and proposals, supporting both system engineer and project manager.

The Future Programmes & Proposals department in Earth Observation and Science is the place where programs are created, and mission concepts elaborated for the most exciting European missions of the future!

We are responsible for assessing the feasibility of future missions/programmes, which includes technical design of the spacecraft, planning, risk assessment and costing as well as exchanges on the scientific or operation goals of the mission to enable the customer to make a decision about the next steps in the programme. The department carries out all early phase Earth observation and science studies for the European Space Agency (ESA) and runs all proposals.

The placement will give a wide overview of the work performed not only in the Future Programmes group but across Airbus, participating in the elaboration of future missions, as well as supporting Airbus to win further proposals. The project teams as well as the various experts will provide any necessary support. The successful applicant will therefore gain valuable experience for a potential future in the space industry.

What you will be doing:

Earth Observation and Science team supports concurrent studies and proposal development. You will work closely with system engineers and project managers, gaining hands‑on experience in the full lifecycle of future mission concepts. Key responsibilities include:

Tasks will include any or all of the following:

• Mission & Requirements Analysis: Supporting technical studies and system architecture definition (including satellite accommodation, mechanical architecture, propulsion, and thermal).
• Performance & Budgeting: Conducting performance analysis and assisting with project budget preparation.
• Proposals & Documentation: Supporting proposal development by creating compelling arguments, documentation, and technical presentations.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Participating in client meetings and collaborating with international Airbus teams.

Requirements:

Our placements are open to Undergraduates only. Therefore it is mandatory for candidates to be an undergraduate for the whole duration of the placement. Please inform your graduation date on your application.

• Your application should include a CV along with a Cover Letter outlining your motivation and suitability for the role.*

Successful candidates will be able to demonstrate the following:

• Studying towards a degree in Aerospace Engineering, Physics or similar subjects/degrees;
• Interest in working in the space industry;
• Experience from previous or university projects will be a plus;
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office and Google Workspace;
• Experience with CAD, MATLAB or programming may be advantageous;
• Systematic and Analytical mindset;
• Curiosity and Flexibility;
• Team player;
• Proficient oral and written communication skills.

This Job Request will be allocated to the projected Joint‑Venture scope towards a leading European player in space.

Security Clearance:

You will be subject to a BPSS (Baseline Personnel Security Standard) check. You may also need to gain UK SC-level Security Clearance or Export Control, depending on the role.

Contact:

Please let us know if you need us to make any adjustments to allow you to access and participate fully in the recruitment process. If you wish to discuss this further please contact us. Any information disclosed will be treated in the strictest confidence.

This job requires an awareness of any potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the Company’s success, reputation and sustainable growth.

Company:

AIRBUS Defence and Space Limited

Employment Type:

Internship

Experience Level:

Student

Job Family:

Sub-system development

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Airbus is committed to achieving workforce diversity and creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome all applications irrespective of social and cultural background, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation or religious belief.

Airbus is, and always has been, committed to equal opportunities for all. As such, we will never ask for any type of monetary exchange in the frame of a recruitment process. Any impersonation of Airbus to do so should be reported to [e-mail] .

At Airbus, we support you to work, connect and collaborate more easily and flexibly. Wherever possible, we foster flexible working arrangements to stimulate innovative thinking.