Space Project Director

NPA WorldWide; Gloucester; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in space technology seeks a motivated Project Manager to lead innovative software and systems projects. You will oversee project lifecycles, managing multidisciplinary teams in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience in project leadership within technical or software areas, especially in space and communications. This role offers a competitive salary, pension, private health insurance, and a hybrid working arrangement.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Pension

Private health insurance

Equity participation

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• 5+ years of proven experience leading technical or software projects, preferably in space, defence, or network communications.
• Comfortable working in a dynamic, fast‑changing environment.
• Willingness to travel occasionally as required.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex software and systems projects from concept to delivery.
• Manage project scope, objectives, deliverables, and success criteria in line with strategic goals.
• Monitor budgets, forecasts, expenditures, and resource use to ensure efficiency.

Skills

Leadership in technical or software projects

Communication skills

Stakeholder management

Project management tools (MSProject, Jira)

Education

PMP, PRINCE2, or IPMA certification

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or related field

Job description

Job description :

Our client is an industry leader delivering innovative software and communication technologies that power the next generation of space systems, digital ground segments, and network orchestration platforms. Their pioneering work supports global satellite communications and advanced R&D programmes across Europe, helping shape the future of connected space infrastructure.

The Opportunity

We are looking for a Project Manager who is highly motivated, technically savvy, and passionate about innovation. This is an exciting opportunity to lead complex projects at the intersection of space systems, network orchestration, and autonomous digital networks.

You will work closely with software engineers, system architects, and research partners overseeing the full project lifecycle from planning to delivery. If you thrive in a fast‑paced environment and enjoy managing multidisciplinary teams working on cutting‑edge satellite communications and European R&D initiatives (ESA, Horizon Europe, etc.), this role is for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead complex software and systems projects from concept to delivery
• Manage project scope, objectives, deliverables, and success criteria in line with strategic goals
• Develop detailed project plans, schedules, budgets, and resource allocations
• Oversee project governance, including progress reviews, risk management, and change control
• Monitor budgets, forecasts, expenditures, and resource use to ensure efficiency
• Identify and mitigate programme and technical risks, proactively resolving issues
• Act as the main point of contact for customers, partners, and funding bodies (ESA, European Commission, etc.)
• Manage subcontractors and suppliers to ensure timely and high‑quality delivery
• Prepare documentation, reports, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders
• Contribute to bid and proposal work, providing project management input for new tenders
• Promote continuous improvement by capturing lessons learned and implementing best practices

Required Qualifications

• 5+ years of proven experience leading technical or software projects (preferably in space, defence, or network communications)
• PMP, PRINCE2, or IPMA certification
• Experience using project management tools (e.g. MSProject, Jira, or similar)
• Excellent communication skills and stakeholder management ability
• Comfortable working in a dynamic, fast‑changing environment
• Willingness to travel occasionally as required

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Telecommunications, or a related field
• Experience delivering ESA, Horizon Europe, or defence‑related projects
• Strong understanding of network orchestration, satellite communications, or ground systems
• Experience with Agile or hybrid project methodologies

What’s on Offer

• Opportunity to lead high‑impact, innovative projects in space technology and digital infrastructure
• Competitive salary, pension, private health insurance, and equity participation
• Hybrid working with flexible arrangements (UK‑based remote)
• Collaboration with leading research centres and global industrial partners
• Exposure to AI‑driven networks, space‑ground integration, and cloud mission control technologies

Eligibility

Applicants must have the right to work in the United Kingdom.

Equal Opportunity

Our client is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity at every level. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.

Why is This a Great Opportunity

• Opportunity to lead high‑impact, innovative projects in space technology and digital infrastructure
• Competitive salary, pension, private health insurance, and equity participation

Salary Type : Annual Salary

Salary Min : £ 100000

Salary Max : £ 150000

Currency Type : GBP