Job Description

Following a successful scheme in 2023, Astroscale UK are seeking a new group of highly motivated and talented individuals to join our 2 year graduate scheme in our leading in-orbit servicing and space sustainability organisation.



As a participant in this scheme, you will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and training in various areas, including systems engineering, software, algorithms, avionics, and other teams. This program will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the space industry and equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to the future of space exploration and sustainability.

Responsibilities

The scheme will provide you with an opportunity to work across 3 of our teams for an 8 month placement;


Systems Engineering: + Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop and optimise space systems and architectures for in-orbit servicing and space sustainability.
+ Assist in the design, analysis, and integration of complex space systems, considering technical, operational, and safety requirements.
+ Conduct performance analysis, and system modelling to evaluate system behaviour and identify improvements.
Software: + Participate in the development and testing of flight or ground segment software, focusing on reliability, fault tolerance, and mission-specific functionality.
+ Support the integration and verification of flight software into spacecraft systems, or the ground segment software, ensuring compliance with mission objectives and safety standards.
+ Collaborate across teams to troubleshoot software-related issues.
Algorithms + Contribute to the design and implementation of guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) algorithms for autonomous spacecraft operations and rendezvous and docking manoeuvres.
+ Assist in the development of GNC simulation models to validate and refine algorithms.
+ Support mission design activities, from requirements derivation and ConOps, down to algorithm definitions and interface specifications.
+ Perform modelling, simulation, analysis and optimisation in mission design, orbital manoeuvres, and orbit estimation.
+ Support real-time operations of the spacecraft.
Ground Segment Systems: + Assist in the design and development of ground-based systems for spacecraft telemetry, tracking, and control.
+ Collaborate with ground segment teams to ensure seamless communication and data transfer between ground stations and spacecraft.
+ Support the implementation and maintenance of ground system infrastructure and software.
Avionics + Exposure to a range of disciplines within avionics including Command and Data Handling, RF, Power and GNC Hardware
+ Supporting the team with reviewing the design and development of sub-system requirements, and interactions with external partners
Assembly, Integration and Test (AIT) + Assist in the assembly and integration of spacecraft components and subsystems, following established procedures and quality standards.
+ Support the preparation and execution of integration activities, including mechanical, and electrical integration
Collaborate across teams to ensure proper handling, installation, and alignment of hardware and equipment.
+



In addition this year we will have an opportunity for a graduate to join the Mission Operations team, given the specialist nature of this team, this role will not rotate between different departments, however you will gain exposure to both the operations prep and execution teams:


Participate in the planning of spacecraft missions, including pre-launch, launch, in-orbit operations, and mission deactivation. Assist in the development and implementation of mission control procedures, including anomaly response and recovery.

Essential Skills

Soon to complete, or have completed in the last 2 years, a relevant degree in an Engineering, Computer Science or related field. Strong academic background with a focus on space systems, aerospace engineering, or a related discipline Passion for space sustainability, in-orbit servicing and the responsible use of space. Excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to work collaboratively within and across teams Strong written and verbal communication skills Ability to adapt to a dynamic and fast-paced work environment. Additional exposure to one or more of the following areas; + Programming languages and simulation software, such as C, C++ and MATLAB/Python
+ Software design and architecture
+ Electronic Engineering
+ Algorithm design, development or deployment
+ Knowledge of spacecraft or mission assembly, integration and verification/test process
+ Understanding of the critical subsystems which make up a satellite mission
+ Understanding of the components of a satellite Ground segment
Knowledge of mission planning and onboard software management
+

Due to business requirements, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for these positions and so applicants must have an independent right to work in the UK on an indefinite basis (or a path to it, which does not require sponsorship).

Dates for the Diary

Due to the scale of recruitment for these roles, we do have fixed dates for the technical exercise and assessment centre day which will form the selection process. As such, please only apply if you are able to attend both dates, the first will be held virtually, and the assessment centre in person on our Harwell Campus site.

Applications Open: Friday 18th April

Applications Close: Friday 16th May

1st Stage Exercise: Monday 9th June (afternoon)

Assessment Centre Day: Thursday 10th July (all day)

Benefits

Opportunity to grow and develop both personally, and within the organisation, with longer term opportunities Competitive base salary Opportunity to work with a highly talented, diverse & dynamic international team with cutting edge technology 9/75 working pattern (opportunity to compress 37.5 hour working weeks across 9 days, rather than 10) Flexible working around core hours in a friendly and supportive environment Hybrid working available (dependent on individual role requirements) 25 days holiday (increasing yearly up to a maximum of 28 days) + UK Bank Holidays Life insurance and long-term sick pay Private healthcare (taxable benefit) Regular social events

Location

Astroscale UK (Harwell)

About Astroscale

We aim to deliver cutting edge technologies that will become part of routine commercial space operations by 2030.



Astroscale is the first private company with a vision to secure the safe and sustainable development of space for the benefit of future generations, and the only company dedicated to in-orbit servicing across all orbits. Founded in 2013, we are developing innovative and scalable solutions across the spectrum of in-orbit servicing missions, including End of Life services, Active Debris Removal, In-situ Space Situational Awareness and Life Extension Services, to create sustainable space systems and mitigate against the hazardous build-up of debris in space.



Astroscale is an Equal Opportunities employer and embraces a diverse workforce. All qualified applicants, including minorities, women and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

Note to recruitment agencies: Astroscale operates a preferred Supplier List, and we do not accept unsolicited agency approaches. Please do not forward candidate CVs or details in response to this advert, or to any Astroscale employee.