Payload System Engineer

Holt Executive Ltd; Worcester; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job description

Holt Executive is proud to be recruiting on behalf of a pioneering space organisation focused on sustainable satellite operations and in-orbit servicing. We are seeking an experienced and driven

Payload Systems Engineer to join their growing engineering team in Harwell, UK.

This is an exciting opportunity to work on innovative missions, contributing to the development, integration, and testing of advanced payloads, including cutting-edge technologies like optical sensors, RF systems, and onboard processing units.

Key Responsibilities:

• Define and manage payload system requirements, interfaces, and performance budgets.
• Work closely with multidisciplinary teams to design and develop payload architectures for satellite missions.
• Lead technical trade-offs, analyses, and feasibility studies for payload components and subsystems.
• Oversee integration, verification, and validation of payload hardware and software.
• Collaborate with external suppliers and partners to manage the development and delivery of payload elements.
• Support mission operations teams in preparing for in-orbit commissioning and performance monitoring.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related discipline.
• Solid experience working on space payload systems, preferably in LEO or GEO missions.
• Strong understanding of electro-optical, RF, or onboard data processing payloads.
• Familiarity with payload interface design, testing, and qualification processes.
• Experience collaborating with hardware and software teams across system-level development cycles.
• Ability to work independently and within a collaborative, cross-functional environment.
• Knowledge of in-orbit servicing, rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO), or satellite inspection missions.
• Experience with tools like MATLAB, STK, or simulation/modeling software.
• Exposure to ECSS or NASA standards for spacecraft systems.
• Previous involvement in mission design, AIT, or payload commissioning.

What’s on Offer:

• Work on meaningful, high-impact missions that support the future of space sustainability.
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Collaborate with a highly skilled, international team on next-gen space systems.
• Hybrid working model and flexible hours.
• Excellent opportunities for professional development and career growth.

If you’re passionate about solving complex space challenges and building systems that make a difference, this is the opportunity for you. Apply today or reach out to Holt Executive for more details.