Senior Robotics Systems Engineer

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Robotics Systems Engineer to join a growing space technology organisation developing advanced on-orbit capabilities. Based at a state-of-the-art facility in Oxfordshire, you'll play a key role in shaping the design and delivery of innovative payload systems for complex space missions.

This is a senior position within a highly skilled engineering team, offering the chance to lead critical aspects of payload development while mentoring others and contributing to cutting-edge solutions in a fast-paced environment.

As a Senior Payload Systems Engineer (Robotics), you will provide subject matter expertise across the full lifecycle of robotic payload systems, from early concept through to testing and operations. You'll work closely with internal engineering teams and external suppliers to deliver high-performance, mission-critical hardware under demanding timelines.

Key Responsibilities

Define and review system requirements and verification strategies at spacecraft, subsystem, and unit levels

Lead technical engagement with robotics suppliers, including co-engineering and system compatibility assessments

Support the design and development of innovative robotic hardware and associated ground support equipment

Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (mechanical, thermal, electrical, software) to solve complex engineering challenges

Work closely with Assembly, Integration & Test (AIT) teams to ensure designs are optimised for manufacture and integration

Contribute to hardware development throughout design, build, test, and launch phases

Produce and maintain technical documentation (specifications, ICDs, procedures, reports, design descriptions)

Support project lifecycle reviews (e.g. PDR, CDR)

Assist with supplier engagement and procurement activities

Provide technical leadership and mentoring within the team

Essential Skills & Experience

Degree (or equivalent experience) in Robotics, Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline

Minimum 5 years' experience in robotics systems engineering

Proven experience delivering complex, safety-critical mechanism design across the full lifecycle

Strong background in robotics design, analysis, procurement, and testing

In-depth understanding of robotics systems, including design trade-offs and performance considerations

Knowledge of spacecraft or complex system development lifecycles (e.g. MDR, PDR, CDR)

Strong systems engineering capability, including requirements management and verification

Experience developing innovative hardware solutions under challenging timelines

Desirable Experience

Knowledge of robotic manipulators for on-orbit or remote operations

Experience with magnetic systems or capture mechanisms

Proficiency in CAD tools (e.g. SolidWorks, CATIA, NX, CREO) and PDM systems

Familiarity with multi-body dynamics modelling (e.g. HyperWorks)

Experience in kinematic modelling and robotics simulation

Programming or automation experience (e.g. Python, VBA)

Understanding of in-orbit servicing, debris removal, or related space mission concepts

What's on Offer

Hybrid and flexible working arrangements

25 days holiday (increasing with service) + bank holidays

Private healthcare and life insurance

Long-term sick pay

Optional compressed working pattern (9/75)

Relocation support and visa sponsorship available (where applicable)

Modern office and cleanroom facilities

Collaborative, international team environment

Regular social and team events

About the Opportunity

This role offers the chance to work on highly innovative space missions, contributing to the development of advanced robotic systems that will shape the future of on-orbit operations. You'll be part of a forward-thinking engineering team working at the cutting edge of space technology, with real impact on the next generation of space systems.

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