Satellite AIT Engineer

NewOrbit Space

Reading

On-site

GBP 50,000 - 85,000

Full time

14 days+

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Benefits offered by this job

Private health insurance
Annual healthcare check-ups
Company ownership stakes
Dedicated remote day per week
Visa sponsorship

Job summary

A pioneering space technology company based in Reading, UK, is seeking an experienced satellite engineer to lead the assembly, integration, and testing of innovative satellite systems. The ideal candidate will have an advanced engineering degree and over 3 years of hands-on experience in satellite projects. This role offers an exciting opportunity to work with groundbreaking technology, a competitive salary with equity, and a hybrid work model. Additional benefits include comprehensive health coverage and a relocation package.

Qualifications

  • 3+ years of hands-on experience in satellite assembly and integration.
  • Comprehensive understanding of satellite programs and project lifecycle.
  • Proficiency in conducting thermal, vibration, mechanical, and functional tests.

Responsibilities

  • Assemble satellite components and manage integration of subsystems.
  • Develop and execute comprehensive testing procedures for satellite validation.
  • Maintain detailed records of assembly, integration, and testing processes.
  • Test Procedure Development: Create detailed test/verification plans for subsystems and full spacecraft.
  • Troubleshooting and Debugging: Identify, diagnose, and resolve issues during integration/testing.
  • Documentation: Maintain records of assembly, integration and testing, with deviations and lessons learned.
  • Quality Assurance: Implement QA protocols to ensure safety and performance before launch.
  • Spacecraft Operations Support: Support spacecraft operations and mission/service delivery as needed.

Skills

Satellite assembly
Integration management
Testing and validation
Troubleshooting
Quality assurance
Cleanroom
CAD tools
Electrical testing
Test automation
Space systems

Education

MEng, MSc, or PhD in Aerospace Engineering
MSc in Aerospace Engineering
PhD in related space tech

Tools

CAD tools
Testing equipment
Test automation software
Vibration tables
Environmental chambers

Job description

At NewOrbit Space, our mission is to engineer the lowest orbiting satellites on Earth to rapidly advance global connectivity and insight.

We are currently building satellites that can operate at an altitude of just 200 km - one-third that of conventional satellites. Thanks to our propulsion system AURA, we can compensate for the atmospheric drag at ultra-low altitudes.

Your Role

You'll develop and execute testing protocols, troubleshoot integration issues, and validate system performance. You will ensure that all satellite subsystems work cohesively to meet mission objectives.

Key Responsibilities
  • Satellite Assembly: Work on the assembly of satellite components, ensuring all mechanical, electrical, and electronic subsystems are correctly integrated and meet design specifications.

  • Integration Management: Manage the integration process of various subsystems, including payloads, propulsion systems, and communication systems, ensuring they function cohesively as a single unit.

  • Testing and Validation: Develop and execute comprehensive testing procedures, including functional, environmental, thermal, mechanical, and vibration tests, to validate satellite performance under operational conditions.

  • Test Procedure Development: Create detailed test and verification plans for various development stages, including subsystem and full spacecraft verification.

  • Troubleshooting and Debugging: Identify, diagnose, and resolve issues that arise during the integration and testing phases, utilizing a methodical approach to ensure all systems meet the required standards.

  • Documentation: Maintain detailed records of the assembly, integration, and testing processes, including test plans, results, and any deviations from standard procedures. Document any lessons learned and ensure compliance with industry standards.

  • Quality Assurance: Implement and uphold rigorous quality assurance protocols throughout the AIT process, ensuring the satellite meets all safety and performance criteria before launch.

  • Spacecraft Operations Support: Support spacecraft operations, including acceptance of spacecraft hardware (platform and payload), and participate in mission/service delivery as needed.

Fundamental Requirements
  • Advanced degree ( MEng, MSc, or PhD) in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related field, with a focus on satellite systems or space technology.

  • 3+ years of hands‑on experience in satellite assembly, integration, and testing within the aerospace industry, with experience in the build and test of spacecraft components and subsystems. This can include your time during your PhD.

  • Comprehensive understanding of satellite programs, preferably across the full project lifecycle.

  • Proficiency in conducting a wide range of satellite tests, including thermal, vibration, mechanical, and functional tests, with experience in using environmental testing chambers, vibration tables, and MGSE/EGSE.

  • Familiarity with tools and software used in satellite assembly and testing, such as CAD tools for mechanical integration, electrical testing equipment, and test automation software.

  • Strong understanding of quality assurance principles and experience implementing QA protocols in aerospace or similarly regulated industries.

  • Willingness to be hands‑on with the assembly and testing of satellite systems, including working in clean room environments and operating specialized testing equipment.

Why NewOrbit Space?
  • Pioneering Space Technology – You'll contribute to launching groundbreaking technology into space. Your work on our revolutionary ion propulsion system and ULEO satellite platform will redefine satellite operations and disrupt traditional LEO operations.

  • Unmatched Ownership and Impact – You'll experience a level of ownership that's rare in the space industry. You will participate in the full lifecycle of satellite technology.

  • Equity and Competitive Salary – You'll receive not just a competitive salary but also company ownership stakes. Your dedication and hard work are rewarded with a share in the technology you help build, ensuring you're a part of our collective success.

  • Comprehensive Benefits Package – Including private health insurance with dental and optical coverage, annual healthcare check‑ups etc.

  • Hybrid Work - A hybrid setup with one dedicated remote day per week.

We provide a relocation package and sponsor your visa if you’re joining us from abroad.

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