Can I Work in Space in the Engineering Sector?

You might think only aerospace engineers can work in space, but there’s an opportunity for people of all disciplines.

Whether you specialise in software, robotics, materials, telecommunications or something else, you have a set of highly transferrable skills that will be invaluable to space sector projects and businesses.

Ready to go to space? Browse our job listings today!

The roles available to engineers in the space sector are highly varied. Depending on your skillset, you might be involved in the research, design, development and ongoing maintenance of systems and spacecraft, helping to propel the future of the field.

Often, you will be using your analytical and problem-solving skills to apply engineering principles to real-world problems. A key part of your role might include testing new components and running simulations to see how they respond to the stresses of space, using this test data to improve your designs.

Alongside practical engineering work, you may also need to write detailed technical reports, bid for contracts, and supervise other team members.

Explore the engineering roles we have on offer here!

Yes, it does. Candidates with engineering backgrounds are highly sought-after by businesses and organisations in this sector, even if they haven’t worked in space before.

There are a range of specific hard skills that employers are actively looking for depending on the role in question. Every engineering discipline – from electrical to propulsion to software – is needed to help the space sector innovate.

Alongside specific engineering qualifications, employers will be looking for a range of hard and soft skills in potential candidates.

Depending on the role you are applying for, you may need to demonstrate communication skills, problem-solving ability and critical thinking, time management, and attention to detail.

If you’re not sure whether you have what it takes to go to space, we’re here to prove you do. Browse our latest opportunities today!

Working as an engineer in the space sector can be a rewarding, challenging and fulfilling career – whatever your particular discipline.

It also provide a good source of income, with varied salaries in the US and beyond, spanning well into 6 figures at senior levels.

Salaries can start from around $77,000, depending on your background and specific role. This can quickly increase as you gain skills and experience, with senior engineers capable of earning $150,000 and above.

The projects you work on will depend on your specific background and experience.

Computer and software engineers, for example, are likely to be involved in creating programmes to benefit the sector, whereas materials engineers might work on the development of space suits.

Other engineers might find a place designing, developing and testing the components of spacecraft, including satellites, probes, rockets and space stations.

Aerospace engineering is often seen as a primary route into the space sector, but the truth is engineers of all disciplines are highly sought-after.

Your skills will be integral to the development of the technologies, software, equipment and infrastructure the space sector needs.

If you have an engineering background – whether it’s telecommunications, computer, robotics or even materials – there’s a job for you in space.

Browse our current vacancies here.