Cranleigh Scientific
Westcott, Buckinghamshire
Aug 10, 2026
Full time
A leading space technology business is looking for a Senior Systems Engineer to support the development and delivery of next-generation spacecraft propulsion systems for commercial, scientific and defence space programmes. Working at the forefront of space propulsion technology, the business designs and manufactures advanced propulsion systems and precision fluidic technologies used by major spacecraft manufacturers worldwide. As the company continues to expand its electric propulsion capability, they're looking to strengthen their Systems Engineering team with an engineer who enjoys solving complex technical problems, working across multidisciplinary teams and taking ownership of challenging engineering programmes. Whether your background is in spacecraft systems, battery systems, electrified powertrains, complex electro-mechanical systems or electric propulsion, this role offers the opportunity to apply your systems engineering expertise within one of the most exciting areas of the space industry. For the right person, there is a clear pathway into a Lead Systems Engineer position as the team continues to grow. The Role You'll work across the full systems engineering lifecycle, supporting the development, integration and verification of spacecraft propulsion systems from early concept through to qualification and customer delivery. Working closely with engineering specialists, customers, manufacturing and programme teams, you'll play a key role in ensuring technically robust, reliable and flight-ready products. Responsibilities Lead systems engineering activities across complex engineering programmes. Capture, manage and maintain customer and system requirements throughout the project lifecycle. Develop system architectures and support technical trade studies. Coordinate multidisciplinary engineering activities across mechanical, electrical and fluidic systems. Produce verification and validation plans and compliance documentation. Support integration, assembly and qualification activities. Review test plans and analyse system performance data. Participate in design reviews including PDR, CDR, TRR and MRR. Work closely with customers and internal stakeholders throughout project delivery. Support future product development and continuous improvement activities. About You We're looking for a strong Systems Engineer with experience delivering complex engineering projects. You may already have experience within the space sector, or you could come from industries such as aerospace, battery systems, electrified vehicles, advanced energy systems or other highly regulated engineering environments. You'll ideally bring: Degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, Physics or a related discipline. Strong Systems Engineering experience. Experience managing technical requirements throughout the engineering lifecycle. Knowledge of verification, validation and qualification activities. Experience working within multidisciplinary engineering teams. Strong communication skills with the ability to work directly with technical stakeholders and customers. Beneficial Experience We're particularly interested in engineers with experience in one or more of the following: Spacecraft systems. Electric propulsion. Battery systems. Electrified powertrains. Fuel cells or hydrogen systems. High voltage systems. Fluidic or pressure control systems. Thermal management. Complex electro-mechanical products. ECSS, NASA, IEC or equivalent engineering standards. Experience with Hall Effect Thrusters, Ion Thrusters or spacecraft propulsion systems would be advantageous but is not essential. Why Apply? Work on cutting-edge spacecraft propulsion technologies. Join a growing engineering team with opportunities for progression. Clear pathway into a Lead Systems Engineer position. Work across exciting commercial and scientific space programmes. Hybrid working. Relocation support available. Benefits Competitive salary Company bonus Hybrid working Private healthcare and dental cover Matched pension Life assurance EV scheme Cycle to Work scheme Employee Assistance Programme Relocation package Ongoing professional development Apply now or contact me directly at (url removed) for a confidential discussion. Systems engineers from adjacent sectors are encouraged to apply.
