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About the Role Holt Executive is seeking a Spacecraft Systems Engineer with expertise in Systems Analysis to join a pioneering space technology team based in Harwell. This is an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of innovative missions, working on the design, analysis, and development of advanced spacecraft systems. You will play a pivotal role in shaping mission architecture, driving system-level design, and providing technical leadership throughout the entire project lifecycle—from initial concept through launch and in-orbit operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead system-level trade studies and analyses to optimize spacecraft architecture and mission performance.
• Develop and maintain system budgets (mass, power, data) and requirements documentation.
• Prepare and review subsystem requirements to support procurement and integration.
• Adapt and refine system designs in response to mission evolution, collaborating closely with subsystem leads and external partners.
• Conduct Failure Detection, Isolation, and Recovery (FDIR) reviews and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA).
• Produce and maintain key system documents, including CONOPS, V&V plans, and system test plans.
• Present technical findings to internal and external stakeholders, supporting bids and early-stage mission development.
• Support Assembly, Integration, and Test (AIT) activities, launch campaigns, and in-orbit commissioning.
• Provide technical support to operations teams during critical mission phases.

Skills & Experience Required

• Degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related STEM field; advanced degree desirable.
• Demonstrable experience in spacecraft systems engineering, ideally across the full mission lifecycle.
• Strong analytical skills and experience with systems engineering methodologies (requirements analysis, verification, and validation).
• Proficiency with simulation and modeling tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python, STK) and requirements management platforms (e.g., JAMA, DOORS).
• Experience working in multidisciplinary teams and with external partners.
• Excellent communication and technical documentation skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities.

Why Join?

• Be part of a collaborative, diverse, and forward-thinking team working on groundbreaking space missions.
• Influence mission-critical decisions and see your work delivered from concept to orbit.
• Competitive salary, benefits, and opportunities for professional growth in a thriving sector.

How to Apply If you are passionate about space systems engineering and want to make a real impact on the future of space technology, apply now to join Holt Executive’s client in Harwell.

Please note: This position is offered by Holt Executive on behalf of a leading space industry client. Further details will be provided during the recruitment process.

Senior Systems Engineer – Defence & Technology

Location: Berkshire (Flexible / Hybrid Working Available)
Salary: £50,000-£60,000 (DOE) + Excellent Benefits
Clearance Required: Must be eligible for UK Security Clearance

Are you a systems thinker with a passion for innovation and leadership? We’re looking for a Senior Systems Engineer to join a cutting-edge engineering team working on complex, multidisciplinary products across the full lifecycle, from concept to delivery.

This is a great opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping high-integrity solutions across electrical, electronic, hardware, and embedded software domains. You’ll be hands-on in project delivery and drive improvements in systems engineering practice, while mentoring and supporting the wider team.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Lead systems engineering activities across complex product development programmes.
• Drive process improvements, mentor colleagues, and enhance engineering best practices.
• Define and manage system-level requirements, from stakeholder input through to compliance.
• Design system architectures, perform trade-off analyses, and guide project decisions.
• Provide technical leadership throughout the design, integration, validation, and commissioning phases.
• Engage with project managers, supply chain, production, and customers to ensure success from concept to delivery.
• Support bid and proposal activities with technical expertise and creative solutions.

What We’re Looking For

• A degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
• A strong background in multidisciplinary systems engineering (min. 5 years).
• Experience across the full product development lifecycle.
• Practical understanding of electrical and electronic systems.
• Proven track record in leading technical teams and delivering successful outcomes.
• Strong communication, organisational, and mentoring skills.
• Passion for continuous improvement and innovation.

What’s In It for You

• 37.5-hour working week with early Friday finish
• Hybrid/flexible working arrangements
• 28 days holiday + Christmas closure + holiday purchase scheme
• Matched pension contributions up to 5%
• Income protection, life assurance & EAP (mental health, GP access, physiotherapy)
• Share schemes and electric vehicle salary sacrifice
• Wellbeing initiatives, sports/social activities, and discounts platform
• Rewarding referral scheme
• Excellent learning and development opportunities

Additional Information

You must be eligible for UK Security Clearance to apply. This includes proving your right to work and UK residency for the last five years.

Ready to lead, innovate, and make a real impact? Apply now and help shape something truly impactful.

Senior Systems Engineer – Defence & Technology

Location: Devon (Flexible / Hybrid Working Available)
Salary: £50,000-£60,000 (DOE) + Excellent Benefits
Clearance Required: Must be eligible for UK Security Clearance

Are you a systems thinker with a passion for innovation and leadership? We’re looking for a Senior Systems Engineer to join a cutting-edge engineering team working on complex, multidisciplinary products across the full lifecycle, from concept to delivery.

This is a great opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping high-integrity solutions across electrical, electronic, hardware, and embedded software domains. You’ll be hands-on in project delivery and drive improvements in systems engineering practice, while mentoring and supporting the wider team.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Lead systems engineering activities across complex product development programmes.
• Drive process improvements, mentor colleagues, and enhance engineering best practices.
• Define and manage system-level requirements, from stakeholder input through to compliance.
• Design system architectures, perform trade-off analyses, and guide project decisions.
• Provide technical leadership throughout the design, integration, validation, and commissioning phases.
• Engage with project managers, supply chain, production, and customers to ensure success from concept to delivery.
• Support bid and proposal activities with technical expertise and creative solutions.

What We’re Looking For

• A degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
• A strong background in multidisciplinary systems engineering (min. 5 years).
• Experience across the full product development lifecycle.
• Practical understanding of electrical and electronic systems.
• Proven track record in leading technical teams and delivering successful outcomes.
• Strong communication, organisational, and mentoring skills.
• Passion for continuous improvement and innovation.

What’s In It for You

• 37.5-hour working week with early Friday finish
• Hybrid/flexible working arrangements
• 28 days holiday + Christmas closure + holiday purchase scheme
• Matched pension contributions up to 5%
• Income protection, life assurance & EAP (mental health, GP access, physiotherapy)
• Share schemes and electric vehicle salary sacrifice
• Wellbeing initiatives, sports/social activities, and discounts platform
• Rewarding referral scheme
• Excellent learning and development opportunities

Additional Information

You must be eligible for UK Security Clearance to apply. This includes proving your right to work and UK residency for the last five years.

Ready to lead, innovate, and make a real impact? Apply now and help shape something truly impactful.

Holt Executive are partnered with a leading Global Satellite and Space leader that provides reliable and secure satellite-delivered voice and high-speed data communications solutions to broadcast, telecommunications, corporate and government customers worldwide. They are now developing a LEO constellation that will revolutionize global broadband connectivity for enterprise.
 
They require a Senior Systems Engineering Specialist – Communication Systems to play a crucial role in developing a revolutionary end-to-end satellite communication system. You’ll collaborate with experts across disciplines to design and define their system’s architecture.
 
Key Responsibilities for the Senior Systems Engineering Specialist – Communication Systems:

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define system architecture, system requirements, and network element specifications.
• Craft key aspects of the system, including communication protocols, resource allocation mechanisms, network entry mechanisms, management systems, and more.
• Lead and guide junior engineers, fostering their growth and expertise.
• Document the system architecture comprehensively for optimal performance and reliability.
• Collaborate with the System Integration and Test team for seamless integration of all system elements.
• Identify and manage technical risks related to the system design and develop mitigation strategies to stay ahead of industry trends.
• Contribute innovative ideas and collaborate with external partners for project success.

Key Education & Experience for the Senior Systems Engineering Specialist – Communication Systems: 

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Proven experience in satellite system architecture and design.
• Strong experience in Payload technology, and Radio Frequency (RF) engineering.
• Strong knowledge of satellite communication protocols, orbital mechanics, and space systems. Ideally with experience in software-defined satellite communication payloads.
• Familiarity with regulatory bodies and space industry standards.
• Must be a US or Canadian Citizen.

The successful candidate must be able to work in Canada and obtain Reliability Clearance.

This opportunity offers a hybrid work model with 4 days in the office per week and occasional travel is anticipated.
 
If your skills and experience match this Senior Systems Engineering Specialist – Communication Systems opportunity, we encourage you to apply now!

Senior Systems Engineer – Defence & Technology

Location: West Sussex (Flexible / Hybrid Working Available)
Salary: £50,000-£60,000 (DOE) + Excellent Benefits
Clearance Required: Must be eligible for UK Security Clearance

Are you a systems thinker with a passion for innovation and leadership? We’re looking for a Senior Systems Engineer to join a cutting-edge engineering team working on complex, multidisciplinary products across the full lifecycle, from concept to delivery.

This is a great opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping high-integrity solutions across electrical, electronic, hardware, and embedded software domains. You’ll be hands-on in project delivery and drive improvements in systems engineering practice, while mentoring and supporting the wider team.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Lead systems engineering activities across complex product development programmes.
• Drive process improvements, mentor colleagues, and enhance engineering best practices.
• Define and manage system-level requirements, from stakeholder input through to compliance.
• Design system architectures, perform trade-off analyses, and guide project decisions.
• Provide technical leadership throughout the design, integration, validation, and commissioning phases.
• Engage with project managers, supply chain, production, and customers to ensure success from concept to delivery.
• Support bid and proposal activities with technical expertise and creative solutions.

What We’re Looking For

• A degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
• A strong background in multidisciplinary systems engineering (min. 5 years).
• Experience across the full product development lifecycle.
• Practical understanding of electrical and electronic systems.
• Proven track record in leading technical teams and delivering successful outcomes.
• Strong communication, organisational, and mentoring skills.
• Passion for continuous improvement and innovation.

 
What’s In It for You

• 37.5-hour working week with early Friday finish
• Hybrid/flexible working arrangements
• 28 days holiday + Christmas closure + holiday purchase scheme
• Matched pension contributions up to 5%
• Income protection, life assurance & EAP (mental health, GP access, physiotherapy)
• Share schemes and electric vehicle salary sacrifice
• Wellbeing initiatives, sports/social activities, and discounts platform
• Rewarding referral scheme
• Excellent learning and development opportunities

Additional Information

You must be eligible for UK Security Clearance to apply. This includes proving your right to work and UK residency for the last five years.

Ready to lead, innovate, and make a real impact? Apply now and help shape something truly impactful.

Holt Executive is proud to be recruiting on behalf of a pioneering space organisation focused on sustainable satellite operations and in-orbit servicing. We are seeking an experienced and driven Payload Systems Engineer to join their growing engineering team in Harwell, UK.

This is an exciting opportunity to work on innovative missions, contributing to the development, integration, and testing of advanced payloads, including cutting-edge technologies like optical sensors, RF systems, and onboard processing units.

Key Responsibilities:

• Define and manage payload system requirements, interfaces, and performance budgets.
• Work closely with multidisciplinary teams to design and develop payload architectures for satellite missions.
• Lead technical trade-offs, analyses, and feasibility studies for payload components and subsystems.
• Oversee integration, verification, and validation of payload hardware and software.
• Collaborate with external suppliers and partners to manage the development and delivery of payload elements.
• Support mission operations teams in preparing for in-orbit commissioning and performance monitoring.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related discipline.
• Solid experience working on space payload systems, preferably in LEO or GEO missions.
• Strong understanding of electro-optical, RF, or onboard data processing payloads.
• Familiarity with payload interface design, testing, and qualification processes.
• Experience collaborating with hardware and software teams across system-level development cycles.
• Ability to work independently and within a collaborative, cross-functional environment.

Desirable Skills:

• Knowledge of in-orbit servicing, rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO), or satellite inspection missions.
• Experience with tools like MATLAB, STK, or simulation/modeling software.
• Exposure to ECSS or NASA standards for spacecraft systems.
• Previous involvement in mission design, AIT, or payload commissioning.

What’s on Offer:

• Work on meaningful, high-impact missions that support the future of space sustainability.
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Collaborate with a highly skilled, international team on next-gen space systems.
• Hybrid working model and flexible hours.
• Excellent opportunities for professional development and career growth.

If you’re passionate about solving complex space challenges and building systems that make a difference, this is the opportunity for you. Apply today or reach out to Holt Executive for more details.

Holt Executive are partnered with a US based new space company who in a joint venture with their European counterparts, are looking to enter the satellite manufacturing business.

Officially founded in 2024, this venture is a significant milestone in the group’s strategic expansion. Backed by over 170m Dollars raised in 2024, this venture is poised to launch their first satellites in 2025.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Payload Systems Engineer with vast experience in Communication/RF Payloads to play a crucial role in managing and optimizing satellite payload communication systems.
 
Key Skills & Experience Required by the Payload Systems Engineer: 

• Vast experience and knowledge in satellite communication systems, radio frequency engineering, and signal processing.
• Experience and knowledge with payload communication protocols, data links, and modulation schemes.
• An understanding of satellite communication standards such as CCSDS.
• Strong understanding of antenna systems, frequency bands, and propagation models.
• Experience and expertise in software-defined radios (SDR) and networking protocols.
• A Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and communicate technical concepts clearly.
• US Citizenship.

This opportunity is a hybrid position, based in Boulder, Colorado. You must be located in or around the Boulder, CO area.
 
If your skills and experience match this Payload Systems Engineer opportunity, we encourage you to apply by sending your CV now!

Holt Executive is supporting a well-established and rapidly growing design and manufacturing business, seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to join its engineering team.

Specialising in advanced systems for the defence sector, the company delivers innovative, precision-engineered solutions to meet complex customer requirements.

This role offers the opportunity to lead a skilled engineering team and contribute to the design and delivery of cutting-edge technology.

Key Responsibilities for the Principal Mechanical Engineer: 

• Lead and manage a multi-disciplinary design team to deliver high-quality mechanical design solutions, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to specification.
• Drive innovative design of complex electro-mechanical systems, mechanisms, and structures using SolidWorks and supporting analysis tools.
• Perform detailed engineering analysis including stress, fatigue, vibration, and materials performance, using both conventional methods and simulation software.
• Produce and manage detailed engineering documentation, including 3D CAD models, manufacturing drawings, test plans, reports, and technical documentation to support product development and customer requirements.
• Integrate mechanical designs with electronic, control, and drive systems, collaborating closely with wider engineering teams.
• Lead design reviews, manage design releases to production, and support manufacturing, testing, and field engineering teams.
• Support project managers with resource planning, progress reporting, and technical problem-solving.
• Assist sales and bid teams with proposals, quotations, and technical input.
• Promote continuous improvement in product development processes, working cross-functionally with other engineering and production teams.

Skills & Experience for the Principal Mechanical Engineer: 

• Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering.
• Proven experience leading the design of complex mechanical systems, preferably within defence or other high-reliability sectors (e.g., R&D, scientific equipment, bespoke machinery).
• Strong knowledge of material selection, machining, fabrication techniques, and surface treatment processes for use in harsh environments.
• Expertise in motion control, precision mechanisms, gear drives, bearings, and motor integration.
• Proficient in SolidWorks 3D CAD and engineering analysis.
• Experience managing small to medium-sized design teams, with a focus on mentoring, coaching, and talent development.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, capable of presenting complex technical arguments clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively within multi-disciplinary teams and deliver results within fast-paced environments.
• Familiarity with producing technical documentation, safety reviews, risk assessments, and quality control processes.

Benefits & Work-Life Balance:

• 37.5-hour working week with early finish on Fridays
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements
• 28 days annual leave + Christmas closure + holiday purchase scheme
• Matched pension contributions up to 5%
• Life assurance, income protection, and employee assistance programme
• Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme
• Wellbeing support, gym discounts, and reward platform with high street discounts
• Employee share scheme and referral bonus
• Continuous learning & development opportunities
• Free onsite parking

Security Clearance Requirement:

Due to the nature of this role, candidates must be eligible to obtain UK Security Clearance. Proof of identity, right to work, employment history, and residency in the UK for at least five years will be required.

If your qualifications and experience align with this Principal Mechanical Engineer opportunity, we encourage you to submit your CV to info@holtexecutive.com for consideration. 

Join a dynamic team at the forefront of aerospace innovation as an Embedded Software Engineer. You will develop real-time embedded software for spacecraft onboard systems, contributing to exciting space missions and shaping the future of space exploration.

This role offers the chance to work on advanced flight software, collaborating with cross-functional teams to design, validate, and integrate critical systems. You’ll be responsible for defining software requirements, testing in both simulation and real-world environments, and ensuring high-performance software solutions.
 
Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and test flight software for spacecraft.
• Work with multiple teams to identify software needs and solutions.
• Participate in mission system testing and simulation.
• Contribute to the overall success of space missions through software design and integration.

 
What We’re Looking For:

• Strong experience in C/C++ for real-time embedded systems.
• Familiarity with real-time operating systems (VxWorks, RTEMS).
• Proven ability to work with version control systems like Git.
• Experience with developing equipment drivers and interface documentation.
• Ability to independently test and debug software in both simulated and live environments.
• Strong problem-solving skills, and proactive, self-driven work ethic.

 
Desirable Experience:

• Experience with space-related software development.
• Knowledge of industry standards like MISRA, CCSDS, or ECSS.
• Familiarity with Linux systems and Python.

 
What You’ll Get:

• Competitive salary and benefits.
• Flexible and hybrid working options and a supportive environment.
• 9/75 work pattern (optional).
• 25 days holiday (increasing with service), life insurance, and private healthcare.
• Relocation support if required.
• Work with a talented, international team in state-of-the-art facilities.

 
Ready to take your career to new heights? Apply now and be part of groundbreaking space technology!

Join a dynamic team at the forefront of aerospace innovation as an Embedded Software Engineer. You will develop real-time embedded software for spacecraft onboard systems, contributing to exciting space missions and shaping the future of space exploration.

This role offers the chance to work on advanced flight software, collaborating with cross-functional teams to design, validate, and integrate critical systems. You’ll be responsible for defining software requirements, testing in both simulation and real-world environments, and ensuring high-performance software solutions.
 
Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and test flight software for spacecraft.
• Work with multiple teams to identify software needs and solutions.
• Participate in mission system testing and simulation.
• Contribute to the overall success of space missions through software design and integration.

 
What We’re Looking For:

• Strong experience in C/C++ for real-time embedded systems.
• Familiarity with real-time operating systems (VxWorks, RTEMS).
• Proven ability to work with version control systems like Git.
• Experience with developing equipment drivers and interface documentation.
• Ability to independently test and debug software in both simulated and live environments.
• Strong problem-solving skills, and proactive, self-driven work ethic.

 
Desirable Experience:

• Experience with space-related software development.
• Knowledge of industry standards like MISRA, CCSDS, or ECSS.
• Familiarity with Linux systems and Python.

 
What You’ll Get:

• Competitive salary and benefits.
• Flexible and hybrid working options and a supportive environment.
• 9/75 work pattern (optional).
• 25 days holiday (increasing with service), life insurance, and private healthcare.
• Relocation support and visa sponsorship.
• Work with a talented, international team in state-of-the-art facilities.

 
Ready to take your career to new heights? Apply now and be part of groundbreaking space technology!