Ground Segment Systems Engineer

Holt Executive; Oxford; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible hybrid working

9/75 work pattern

25 days holiday + bank holidays

Private healthcare

Life insurance

Relocation and visa sponsorship

State-of-the-art office and cleanroom

International team culture

Job summary

Holt Executive seeks an experienced Systems Engineer to join a fast-growing space tech organisation in Oxford. You will contribute to the full lifecycle of ground segment development, from conceptual design to maintenance and operational support, enabling safe and reliable space missions.

Collaborating with Mission, Systems, and Operations teams, you will work in a dynamic, cross-disciplinary environment that values innovation and sustainability in space, with flexible, hybrid working options

Qualifications

• Degree in CS/Telecommunications/engineering.
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in ground systems engineering.
• Solid understanding of ground segment components and their interactions.
• Knowledge of space mission design and development processes.
• Experience in requirements engineering.

Responsibilities

• Lead or support the development of ground systems including Mission Control, Mission Planning, and Ground Station Interface Systems.
• Derive and manage system requirements across the ground segment and its components.
• Act as Product Owner or Technical Officer with external suppliers and support internal development teams during system design and integration.
• Collaborate closely with Mission, Systems, and Operations teams to ensure technical alignment across disciplines.
• Follow Agile (SCRUM) methodologies to implement requirements and maintain project schedules.
• Produce and maintain high-quality technical documentation, including requirements, verification plans, test procedures, and reports.
• Conduct verification and validation activities, including system tests and simulation campaigns.
• Support the Operations team during mission activities and assist with maintenance and troubleshooting of ground systems.

Skills

Ground systems engineering

Requirements engineering

Agile/Scrum

C++/Java

Linux & shell scripting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Telecommunications, or related engineering field

Tools

SCOS-2000

Linux

Shell scripting

Job description

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and motivated Systems Engineer to join a fast-growing organisation at the forefront of space technology and mission operations.

In this role, you’ll be involved in the full lifecycle of ground segment development, from conceptual design through to maintenance and operational support. You’ll play a key role in developing the infrastructure and software on the ground that enable safe and reliable space missions.

Working closely with Mission, Systems, and Operations teams, this position offers the chance to contribute to cutting‑edge space missions and participate directly in control centre activities. It’s a fantastic opportunity to apply your technical expertise in a dynamic and collaborative environment where innovation and sustainability in space are core values.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead or support the development of ground systems including Mission Control, Mission Planning, and Ground Station Interface Systems.
• Derive and manage system requirements across the ground segment and its components.
• Act as Product Owner or Technical Officer with external suppliers and support internal development teams during system design and integration.
• Collaborate closely with Mission, Systems, and Operations teams to ensure technical alignment across disciplines.
• Follow Agile (SCRUM) methodologies to implement requirements and maintain project schedules.
• Produce and maintain high‑quality technical documentation, including requirements, verification plans, test procedures, and reports.
• Conduct verification and validation activities, including system tests and simulation campaigns.
• Support the Operations team during mission activities and assist with maintenance and troubleshooting of ground systems.

Essential Skills

• Degree in Computer Science, Telecommunications, or a relevant engineering discipline.
• Minimum 3 years’ experience in ground systems engineering.
• Solid understanding of ground segment components and their interactions.
• Knowledge of space mission design and development processes.
• Experience in requirements engineering.

Desirable Skills

• Experience with Mission Control Systems (e.g., SCOS-2000).
• Knowledge of Automation Systems, Mission Planning, or Ground Station Communications.
• Experience working in Agile/Scrum environments.
• Familiarity with C++ and/or Java, Linux systems, and shell scripting.

What’s on Offer

• Flexible and hybrid working options
• 9/75 work pattern (optional)
• 25 days’ holiday (increasing with service) + bank holidays
• Private healthcare and life insurance
• Relocation and visa sponsorship (where applicable)
• State‑of‑the‑art office and cleanroom facilities
• Supportive, international team culture and regular social events