Spacecraft Operations Engineer

Spacecraft Operations Engineer

AAC Clyde Space

Glasgow or London, United Kingdom

About this role:

We are looking for a proactive and dynamic engineer to join our spacecraft operations team. You will be responsible for commanding our spacecraft and planning their daily activities. Day to day, this involves: in-orbit testing of new spacecraft, tracking KPIs and optimising mission operations, working with our ground segment team to develop automated processes, investigating in-orbit anomalies, writing plans/procedures and participating in ground test campaigns. Some on-call and out-of-hours working is required. We are open to applicants with different levels of experience. The role suits someone with a spacecraft operations or systems engineering background.

Key Responsibilities:

Mission Preparation and Commissioning:

• Lead the commissioning of our spacecrafts from launch to commencement of nominal operations.
• Plan, prepare and execute in-orbit tests.
• Participate in ground testing, operations rehearsals, and readiness reviews.
• Support the design of mission-specific ground segment systems for service and data delivery.
• Develop and maintain operational procedures and other documentation.

Routine Operations:

• Monitor and ensure continued operation and health of existing missions.
• Coordinate short and long term activity plans to meet mission and customer requirements.
• Investigate and resolve in-orbit anomalies identify trends and implement preventive measures.
• Take ownership of KPIs and the continual improvement of our services.
• Report both internally and to our customers.

Other:

• Develop documentation and processes according to regulations and licencing requirements.
• Provide support to other engineering teams as required.

Skills required:

• A relevant degree or equivalent in experience
• Strong analytical and decision-making skills, with a systems mindset.
• Proactive and driven to solve problems both independently and collaboratively.
• Adaptable and quick to learn new software and tools.
• Calm and effective under pressure; resilient in dynamic environments; able to prioritise workload.
• Highly organised and detail-oriented, to ensure accurate work and record keeping.
• Customer-focused with a sound commercial awareness.
• Clear and confident communicator. Technical report and procedure writing to a high standard.
• Strong IT skills and familiarity with command line interfaces.
• Ability to work flexibly, including during off-hours or on-call shifts.
• Proficient in English, both verbally and written.

Skills desired:

• Knowledge of space mission analysis and spacecraft design
• Experience of scripting or automation tools (primarily Python)
• Experience of RF / DSP engineering applied to space communications
• Experience of testing or operating a spacecraft at system/mission level
• Experience with flight dynamics, constellation management or mission planning.
• Knowledge of GIS and/or Remote Sensing
• Previous experience working with small/medium sized companies