Senior Mission Operations Engineer

Holt Executive; England; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic space engineering firm in the UK seeks an experienced Senior Mission Operations Engineer to lead mission operations across a range of projects. You will be responsible for real-time spacecraft operations, mentoring junior engineers, and enhancing mission execution within a supportive and innovative team. The role offers a flexible hybrid working environment and competitive benefits, making it an exciting opportunity for professionals passionate about space operations.

Benefits

Flexible working environment

Private healthcare

25 days’ annual leave

Qualifications

• 5–10 years of satellite industry experience, especially in real-time spacecraft operations for LEO missions.
• Strong understanding of satellite subsystems, such as AOCS/GNC.
• Confident communicator, fluent in English (CEFR Level B2/TOEIC 700+).

Responsibilities

• Act as an operations technical lead for multiple missions.
• Provide mentorship to less experienced engineers.
• Develop and maintain mission operations procedures.

Skills

Real-time spacecraft operations

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Familiarity with satellite subsystems

Education

Degree in a relevant engineering discipline

Tools

Mission control systems

Operations tools

Job description

A fantastic opportunity has arisen for an experienced Senior Mission Operations Engineer to join a growing and dynamic space engineering team in Harwell, supporting current and future orbital missions.

This position offers the chance to take a leading role in all phases of mission operations, from feasibility and early development, through LEOP, routine operations, and end-of-life management. It’s a broad and varied role that combines responsibilities across mission planning, spacecraft operations, systems engineering, and mission management.

You’ll be part of a small, highly skilled team developing and operating next-generation space missions — with the freedom to innovate, drive improvements, and shape the operational approach across a growing fleet of spacecraft.

For this role we can consider visa sponsorship and relocation support.

What You’ll Do

• Act as an operations technical lead across multiple missions and projects.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to less experienced operations engineers.
• Perform real-time spacecraft operations during routine and critical mission phases.
• Develop and maintain mission operations procedures, validation tests, and tools.
• Contribute to planning, scheduling, and coordination with spacecraft engineering, flight dynamics, and ground systems teams.
• Prepare mission documentation, including user manuals and operations plans.
• Support development of mission operations concepts and operability requirements.
• Lead anomaly investigations, performance monitoring, and trend analysis.
• Participate in 24 / 7 operations shifts during key mission events as required.

What You’ll Bring

• Degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
• 5–10 years of satellite industry experience, ideally in real-time spacecraft operations for LEO missions.
• Strong understanding of satellite subsystems (AOCS / GNC or OBDH advantageous).
• Hands‑on experience with mission control systems, operations tools, and simulators.
• Proven ability to perform under pressure and manage anomalies calmly and effectively.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to develop and deliver innovative operations concepts for multi‑satellite missions.
• Confident communicator, fluent in English (CEFR Level B2 / TOEIC 700+).

Desirable Skills

• Experience with SCOS-2000 mission control systems.
• Knowledge of systems engineering principles for operations.
• Familiarity with formation flying or close‑proximity satellite operations.
• Understanding of flight dynamics, orbital mechanics, and ECSS operations standards.

What’s on Offer

• Flexible and hybrid working environment.
• Opportunities to work on cutting‑edge space missions and technologies.
• Relocation and visa sponsorship support where applicable.
• 25 days’ annual leave (increasing with service) plus bank holidays.
• Private healthcare, life insurance, and long‑term sick pay.
• Modern facilities including new office and cleanroom.
• Friendly, collaborative, and international team culture.

If you’re passionate about space operations, thrive in dynamic mission environments, and want to play a key role in shaping the future of sustainable space missions, we’d love to hear from you.

TT