Technical Program Manager | Satellite

NewOrbit Space Ltd; Reading; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Join NewOrbit Space Ltd as a Satellite Programme Manager, overseeing the development and launch of groundbreaking ultra-low orbit satellites. You will manage schedules, coordinate cross-functional teams, and lead engineering efforts to advance space technology. Enjoy competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits while making a significant impact in the space industry.

Benefits

Private health insurance with dental and optical coverage

Annual healthcare check-ups

Equity and company ownership stakes

Qualifications

• Proven expertise in design, manufacturing, and testing of engineering products.
• Experience in leading teams and resolving engineering bottlenecks.
• Strong communication and team-building skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Programme ownership: build and maintain the integrated master schedule.
• Cross-functional coordination among teams on technical milestones.
• Hands-on involvement in product delivery and resolving bottlenecks.

Skills

Team Collaboration

Problem Solving

Project Management

Communication

Education

Background in systems engineering, mechanical engineering, satellite design, mechatronics, or related field

Tools

Project Management Tools (e.g., Jira)

Job description

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

We are currently building satellites that can breathe air and operate at an altitude of just 200 km - one-third that of conventional satellites. Thanks to our proprietary propulsion system we can compensate for the atmospheric drag at ultra low altitudes using the air as propellant.

Please note that as we prepare for our maiden satellite mission, we are in a critical growth phase. Our roles will often require extended hours and are not typical 9-to-6 positions.

Your Role

We're looking for a Satellite Programme Manager (Technical Programme Manager) to steer our first ultra-low-orbit spacecraft to launch and early operations.

You'll own the development roadmap, unblock engineering bottlenecks, and keep suppliers, budgets, and timelines moving in lock-step. Acting as the hub between system leads, external partners, and leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Programme ownership - build and maintain the integrated master schedule, cost baseline, and risk register for the full satellite build.
• Cross-functional coordination - align propulsion, structures, AOCS, software, payload, launch, and operations teams on technical milestones and dependencies.
• Hands-on involvement in product delivery, including regular product and timeline reviews with team members.
• Efficient identification and resolution of bottlenecks, including engineering involvement and supplier negotiations.
• Establishing and maintaining development roadmaps, implementing them in project management tools (e.g., Jira), and performance tracking.
• Managing interfaces, tracking subsystem requirements, and ensuring seamless communication between teams.
• Monitoring manufacturing status, deliveries, and engineering processes.
• Overseeing supplier communication, tracking delivery status, and managing supply chain activities.
• Ensuring successful completion of electric propulsion delivery milestones.
• Developing and executing new initiatives to improve project outcomes.
• Support with grant applications.

Fundamental Requirements

• Education: Background in systems engineering, mechanical engineering, satellite design, mechatronics, or a related field.
• Experience: Proven expertise in design, manufacturing, and testing of engineering products. Demonstrated experience working in or leading teams, with the ability to resolve engineering bottlenecks and motivate team members.
• Mindset: A leader who takes responsibility, fosters team collaboration, and proactively addresses challenges. Strong communication and team-building skills are essential.

Why NewOrbit Space?

• Pioneering Space Technology - You'll contribute to launching groundbreaking technology into space. Your work on our revolutionary air-breathing ion propulsion system will redefine satellite operations in ultra-low Earth orbits.
• 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.