Test Development Engineer

Thales Group; East Hagbourne; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading high-tech company in East Hagbourne is seeking an experienced Electrical Test Operator for a full-time, on-site role involving the execution of electrical and functional tests on spacecraft. Responsibilities include preparing test setups, using various electrical test equipment, and supporting test campaigns. Candidates must have a minimum qualification of HNC or NVQ Level 4 in Electrical Engineering and knowledge of spacecraft systems. Shift work is required, flexibility is essential.

Qualifications

• Must have knowledge of spacecraft electrical systems and harnesses.
• Experience with various electrical and RF test equipment required.
• Competence in updating test sequences/scripts is necessary.

Responsibilities

• Execute electrical and functional test procedures on engineering test benches.
• Prepare electrical test setups and make measurements.
• Support development and debugging of automated test procedures.

Skills

Knowledge of spacecraft electrical systems and harnesses

Familiarity with spacecraft subsystems

Competence with electrical and RF test equipment

Computer skills for test documentation

Experience updating test sequences/scripts

Awareness of cleanroom disciplines

Experience in electrical integration and test equipment

Education

Minimum HNC or NVQ Level 4 in Electrical Engineering

Job description

average 38 hours per week
Work Pattern : Shifts - must be flexible to changing shift patterns (including weekends and 24/7 coverage as required)
Security Clearance, Inside IR35

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Electrical Test Operator to join a leading space and high‑tech manufacturing project. You will be responsible for executing electrical and functional test procedures on engineering test benches and flight spacecraft, supporting both preparation and execution of tests in a cleanroom environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute electrical and functional test procedures on engineering test benches, flight spacecraft and payloads
• Prepare electrical test setups, make electrical measurements, and execute functional tests
• Use Central Checkout System (CCS), Electrical Ground Support Equipment (EGSE), and Spacecraft Check Out Equipment (SCOE)
• Validate test aids, update procedures, raise work orders and prepare test documentation
• Support development and debugging of automated test procedures (ATP)
• Assist with electrical integration, automated/manual tests at unit, subsystem and system level
• Support environmental and launch test campaigns

Skills & Experience Required

• Knowledge of spacecraft electrical systems and harnesses
• Familiarity with spacecraft subsystems (Data Handling, Power, Thermal, etc.)
• Competence with electrical and RF test equipment (DMM, oscilloscope, signal generator, power meter, network analyser, etc.)
• Computer skills for test documentation; experience with Digital Design and Manufacturing Systems (DDMS) beneficial
• Experience updating test sequences/scripts for spacecraft tests from CCS
• Awareness of cleanroom disciplines
• Experience in electrical integration, test equipment and environmental/launch campaigns

Education & Training

Minimum HNC or NVQ Level 4 in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent experience, 5+ years)

Additional Details

• Full‑time, on‑site role
• Shift work
• Two‑stage interview process (telephone and on‑site)
• To apply