📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Satellite Systems Engineer | Satellite
Company: NewOrbit Space
Location: Reading, England, United Kingdom
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Systems Engineering (Space)
Date Posted: 2025-08-08
Experience Level: 5-10 years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Lead the architecture and verification of NewOrbit Space's demonstration mission, driving system definition from phase A studies through on-orbit operations.
Translate customer and mission objectives into verifiable system requirements, and own the end-to-end systems definition.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to plan and coordinate system integration and test campaigns, ensuring compliance with standards and customer expectations.
Demonstrate a proven track record in satellite systems engineering, with a strong understanding of spacecraft subsystems and experience in space system integration and testing.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a high level of technical expertise and the ability to work at a significantly faster pace than traditional aerospace projects, given NewOrbit Space's mission to engineer the lowest orbiting satellites on Earth.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

System Requirements & Verification: Develop and maintain the satellite's system requirements, interface control documents (ICDs), and verification plans. Ensure requirements flow-down to subsystem teams and oversee interface integration.
System Integration & Testing: Plan and coordinate system integration and test campaigns in close collaboration with other engineering teams. Perform system-level modeling, FMEAs, and risk assessments to identify and mitigate technical and schedule risks.
Cross-disciplinary Design Reviews: Lead cross-disciplinary design reviews across the system lifecycle (PDR, CDR, TRR) and ensure compliance with standards and customer expectations.
Stakeholder Management: Interface with suppliers, contractors, and customers to resolve technical issues and ensure system integration on schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with various stakeholders, both internal and external, to ensure project success.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is required. A Master's degree would be an asset.

Experience: Over 5 years of hands-on experience in satellite systems engineering is essential. Experience with space system integration and testing in laboratory or clean-room environments is highly desirable.

Required Skills:

Proven expertise in satellite systems engineering and spacecraft subsystems (power, communications, ADCS, thermal control, structures, on-board computing, and propulsion).
Strong understanding of system integration and testing processes.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
Proficiency in using engineering tools and software for system-level modeling and analysis.

Preferred Skills:

Experience with Agile methodologies and space mission lifecycle phases.
Familiarity with space standards and regulations.
Knowledge of programming languages relevant to spacecraft systems (e.g., C, C++, Python).
Experience with satellite mission architecture and on-orbit operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, proficiency in using tools such as MathWorks MATLAB/Simulink, STK (Satellite Tool Kit), or similar software would be highly beneficial for this role.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

A portfolio showcasing your experience in satellite systems engineering, with a focus on system integration and testing.
Case studies demonstrating your ability to translate customer and mission objectives into verifiable system requirements.
Examples of your involvement in cross-disciplinary design reviews and stakeholder management.

Technical Documentation:

Detailed system requirements documents (SRDs) and interface control documents (ICDs) demonstrating your ability to define and maintain system-level requirements.
Reports on system integration and test campaigns, highlighting your experience in planning, coordinating, and executing these activities.
Risk assessments and FMEAs (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) demonstrating your ability to identify and mitigate technical and schedule risks.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the fast-paced nature of NewOrbit Space's projects, it is essential to demonstrate your ability to work efficiently and deliver high-quality results under tight deadlines.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: £60,000 - £80,000 per annum (Estimated, based on market research for satellite systems engineers in the UK with 5-10 years of experience)

Benefits:

Private Health Insurance (including dental and optical coverage)
Annual healthcare check-ups
Equity and competitive salary
Unmatched ownership and impact in pioneering space technology

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with the possibility of extended hours during critical project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is an estimate based on market research for satellite systems engineers in the UK. The actual salary may vary depending on the candidate's experience, skills, and the company's internal salary structure.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Space Technology and Satellite Communications

Company Size: Medium (51-250 employees)

Founded: 2020

Team Structure:

Cross-functional engineering teams, including satellite systems, propulsion, structures, power, and communications.
A collaborative and agile work environment, with a strong emphasis on innovation and rapid iteration.

Development Methodology:

Agile methodologies, with a focus on iterative development and continuous improvement.
Close collaboration between engineering teams to ensure system-level integration and compatibility.

Company Website: NewOrbit Space

📝 Enhancement Note: NewOrbit Space's company culture is characterized by its pioneering approach to space technology and its commitment to rapid innovation. This is reflected in its collaborative and agile work environment, as well as its emphasis on ownership and impact for its employees.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: Lead Satellite Systems Engineer (Mid to Senior level)

Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Chief Engineer and is responsible for leading the satellite systems engineering team.

Technical Impact: This role has a significant impact on the overall success of NewOrbit Space's satellite missions. The lead satellite systems engineer is responsible for ensuring that the satellite's systems meet the required performance, reliability, and safety standards, and that they are integrated and tested successfully.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical Growth: As NewOrbit Space continues to develop and launch its satellites, there will be opportunities for the lead satellite systems engineer to grow technically, taking on more complex and challenging roles within the organization.
Leadership Growth: With experience in leading cross-functional teams and driving project success, the lead satellite systems engineer may have the opportunity to move into a leadership role, such as Chief Engineer or Director of Engineering.
Entrepreneurial Growth: Given NewOrbit Space's commitment to ownership and impact, there may be opportunities for employees to take on more entrepreneurial roles within the organization, such as leading a new project or spin-off company.

📝 Enhancement Note: NewOrbit Space's fast-paced and innovative environment provides numerous opportunities for growth and development, both technically and professionally. Employees are encouraged to take on new challenges and expand their skills and knowledge.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Modern, collaborative office space with state-of-the-art engineering facilities and clean rooms.

Office Location(s): Reading, England, United Kingdom

Workspace Context:

Collaborative Environment: NewOrbit Space's office is designed to foster collaboration and communication between engineering teams, with open-plan workspaces and dedicated meeting areas.
Specialized Equipment: The office is equipped with specialized tools and software for satellite systems engineering, such as vibration tables, thermal vacuum chambers, and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) test facilities.
Flexible Working: While the role is primarily on-site, NewOrbit Space offers flexible working arrangements, allowing employees to work from home when necessary.

Work Schedule: 40 hours per week, with the possibility of extended hours during critical project phases. The work schedule is flexible and may vary depending on project requirements and personal needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: NewOrbit Space's work environment is designed to support its innovative and collaborative culture, with state-of-the-art facilities and flexible working arrangements that enable employees to balance their work and personal lives.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Initial Screening: A brief telephone or video call to discuss your experience and qualifications for the role.
Technical Interview: A more in-depth discussion of your technical skills and experience, focusing on satellite systems engineering, space mission architecture, and system integration and testing.
Case Study: A case study or project-based interview, assessing your ability to translate customer and mission objectives into verifiable system requirements and to plan and coordinate system integration and test campaigns.
Final Interview: A meeting with the Chief Engineer and other senior members of the team to discuss your fit for the role and the company's culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight your experience in satellite systems engineering, with a focus on system integration and testing.
Showcase your ability to translate customer and mission objectives into verifiable system requirements, using examples from your previous roles.
Demonstrate your involvement in cross-disciplinary design reviews and stakeholder management, using case studies or project examples.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on your knowledge of satellite systems engineering, spacecraft subsystems, and space mission architecture.
Familiarize yourself with the latest trends and developments in the space industry, particularly in the area of ultra-low Earth orbit satellites.
Prepare for questions on system-level modeling, FMEAs, and risk assessments, as well as your experience with engineering tools and software.

ATS Keywords: Satellite Systems Engineering, Spacecraft Subsystems, System Integration, Test Campaigns, Requirements Flow-down, Risk Assessments, Cross-disciplinary Design Reviews, Technical Issue Resolution, Space Mission Architecture, On-orbit Operations, Space Standards and Regulations, Engineering Tools and Software, Agile Methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: NewOrbit Space's interview process is designed to assess your technical skills and experience, as well as your fit for the company's culture and values. By preparing thoroughly and demonstrating your passion for pioneering space technology, you can make a strong impression and increase your chances of success.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Satellite Systems Engineering Tools:

MathWorks MATLAB/Simulink
STK (Satellite Tool Kit)
COTS (Commercial Off-The-Shelf) software for system-level modeling and analysis
Engineering drawing tools (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks)

Spacecraft Subsystems:

Power: Solar panels, batteries, power distribution units (PDUs)
Communications: Antennas, transceivers, modems
ADCS (Attitude Determination and Control Subsystem): Star trackers, gyroscopes, reaction wheels, magnetic torque bars
Thermal Control: Radiators, heat pipes, heat exchangers
Structures: Carbon fiber, aluminum, titanium
On-board Computing: Single-board computers, flight computers
Propulsion: Air-breathing ion propulsion system, chemical thrusters

Space Mission Architecture:

Ultra-low Earth orbit (200 km altitude)
Air-breathing ion propulsion system
Rapid mission development and launch cycle

📝 Enhancement Note: NewOrbit Space's technology stack is focused on pioneering space technology, with a particular emphasis on its revolutionary air-breathing ion propulsion system. Familiarity with this technology and its implications for satellite operations in ultra-low Earth orbits is essential for this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Web Development Values:

Innovation: NewOrbit Space values innovation and encourages its employees to think creatively and push the boundaries of what is possible in space technology.
Collaboration: NewOrbit Space fosters a collaborative work environment, with a strong emphasis on cross-functional teamwork and communication.
Ownership: NewOrbit Space encourages its employees to take ownership of their work and to strive for excellence in all that they do.
Impact: NewOrbit Space values the impact that its technology can have on the world, and encourages its employees to consider the broader implications of their work.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-functional Integration: NewOrbit Space's engineering teams work closely together to ensure that the satellite's systems are integrated and compatible.
Code Review Culture: While not explicitly stated, NewOrbit Space's collaborative work environment is likely to include a code review culture, with engineers reviewing each other's work to ensure quality and consistency.
Knowledge Sharing: NewOrbit Space encourages its employees to share their knowledge and expertise with each other, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: NewOrbit Space's team culture is characterized by its commitment to innovation, collaboration, ownership, and impact. This is reflected in its emphasis on cross-functional teamwork, knowledge sharing, and continuous learning and improvement.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Air-breathing Ion Propulsion System: Familiarize yourself with NewOrbit Space's proprietary air-breathing ion propulsion system and its implications for satellite operations in ultra-low Earth orbits.
Rapid Mission Development and Launch Cycle: Understand the challenges and opportunities presented by NewOrbit Space's fast-paced development and launch cycle, and how to manage projects effectively within this environment.
Customer and Mission Objectives: Develop your ability to translate diverse and sometimes conflicting customer and mission objectives into verifiable system requirements, and to manage stakeholder expectations effectively.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Technical Skill Development: NewOrbit Space offers opportunities for employees to develop their technical skills and knowledge, through training, workshops, and on-the-job experience.
Conference Attendance and Certification: NewOrbit Space supports its employees in attending relevant conferences and obtaining certifications in their field of expertise.
Technical Mentorship and Leadership Development: NewOrbit Space provides opportunities for employees to receive technical mentorship from experienced engineers and to develop their leadership skills through architecture decision-making and team management.

📝 Enhancement Note: NewOrbit Space's fast-paced and innovative environment presents numerous technical challenges and learning opportunities for employees. By embracing these challenges and seeking out opportunities for growth and development, employees can expand their skills and knowledge and make a significant impact on the company's success.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Satellite Systems Engineering: Questions on satellite systems engineering, spacecraft subsystems, and space mission architecture, with a focus on system integration and testing.
System-level Modeling: Questions on system-level modeling, FMEAs, and risk assessments, with a focus on identifying and mitigating technical and schedule risks.
Stakeholder Management: Questions on stakeholder management, with a focus on resolving technical issues and ensuring system integration on schedule.

Company & Culture Questions:

Company Culture: Questions on NewOrbit Space's company culture, values, and work environment, with a focus on innovation, collaboration, ownership, and impact.
Mission Architecture: Questions on NewOrbit Space's mission architecture and on-orbit operations, with a focus on the challenges and opportunities presented by ultra-low Earth orbit satellites and air-breathing ion propulsion systems.
Customer and Mission Objectives: Questions on translating customer and mission objectives into verifiable system requirements, with a focus on managing stakeholder expectations and ensuring project success.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Live Demonstration: Prepare a live demonstration of your experience in satellite systems engineering, with a focus on system integration and testing.
Technical Walkthrough: Prepare a technical walkthrough of your portfolio, highlighting your ability to translate customer and mission objectives into verifiable system requirements and to plan and coordinate system integration and test campaigns.
Stakeholder Management: Prepare examples of your involvement in cross-disciplinary design reviews and stakeholder management, demonstrating your ability to work effectively with various stakeholders to ensure project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: NewOrbit Space's interview process is designed to assess your technical skills and experience, as well as your fit for the company's culture and values. By preparing thoroughly and demonstrating your passion for pioneering space technology, you can make a strong impression and increase your chances of success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this satellite systems engineering position at NewOrbit Space:

Submit your application through the application link provided.
Customize your resume and portfolio to highlight your experience in satellite systems engineering, with a focus on system integration and testing.
Prepare for the technical interview by brushing up on your knowledge of satellite systems engineering, spacecraft subsystems, and space mission architecture.
Research NewOrbit Space's company culture, values, and work environment, and prepare for questions on these topics.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with NewOrbit Space before making application decisions.

Content Guidelines (IMPORTANT: Do not include this in the output)

Space Technology-Specific Focus:

Tailor every section specifically to satellite systems engineering, spacecraft subsystems, and space mission architecture.
Include satellite systems engineering methodologies, spacecraft subsystem integration, and space mission lifecycle phases.
Emphasize system integration and testing, requirements flow-down, and risk assessments.
Address the unique challenges and opportunities presented by ultra-low Earth orbit satellites and air-breathing ion propulsion systems.
Highlight the importance of stakeholder management, cross-disciplinary design reviews, and customer and mission objectives.

Quality Standards:

Ensure no content overlap between sections - each section must contain unique information.
Only include Enhancement Notes when making significant inferences about satellite systems engineering processes, spacecraft subsystem integration, or space mission architecture.
Be comprehensive but concise, prioritizing actionable information over descriptive text.
Strategically distribute satellite systems engineering and spacecraft subsystem-related keywords throughout all sections naturally.
Provide realistic salary ranges based on location, experience level, and satellite systems engineering specialization.

Industry Expertise:

Include specific satellite systems engineering tools, spacecraft subsystems, and space mission architecture relevant to the role.
Address satellite systems engineering career progression paths and technical leadership opportunities in space technology organizations.
Provide tactical advice for satellite systems engineering portfolio development, live demonstrations, and project case studies.
Include satellite systems engineering-specific interview preparation and coding challenge guidance.
Emphasize system-level modeling, FMEAs, risk assessments, and stakeholder management principles.

Professional Standards:

Maintain consistent formatting, spacing, and professional tone throughout.
Use satellite systems engineering and spacecraft subsystem industry terminology appropriately and accurately.
Include comprehensive benefits and growth opportunities relevant to satellite systems engineering professionals.
Provide actionable insights that give satellite systems engineering candidates a competitive advantage.
Focus on satellite systems engineering team culture, cross-functional collaboration, and mission impact measurement.

Technical Focus & Portfolio Emphasis:

Emphasize satellite systems engineering best practices, spacecraft subsystem integration, and mission architecture principles.
Include specific portfolio requirements tailored to the satellite systems engineering discipline and role level.
Address system integration and testing, requirements flow-down, and risk assessments in the context of satellite systems engineering.
Focus on problem-solving methods, performance optimization, and scalable mission architecture.
Include technical presentation skills and stakeholder communication for satellite systems engineering projects.

Avoid:

Generic business jargon not relevant to satellite systems engineering roles.
Placeholder text or incomplete sections.
Repetitive content across different sections.
Non-technical terminology unless relevant to the specific satellite systems engineering role.
Marketing language unrelated to satellite systems engineering, spacecraft subsystems, or space mission architecture.

Generate comprehensive, satellite systems engineering-focused content that serves as a valuable resource for satellite systems engineering professionals evaluating career opportunities and preparing for technical interviews in the space technology industry.

Lead Systems Engineer | Satellite