Head of Space Programme

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced Head of Space Programme with at least five years of professional hands-on experience in satellite systems engineering, mission development, integration, testing, launch, and operations. The successful candidate will provide technical leadership in satellite systems engineering, mission development, integration, testing, launch and operations, while leveraging their expertise to conduct training programmes in satellite engineering for undergraduates, young professionals and youths.

Responsibilities & Tasks

Space Mission Development & Operation

1. Lead the end-to-end developmentand execution of CubeSat and microsatellite missions, from mission concept,systems architecture and design through integration, testing, launch,commissioning, and post-launch operations

2. Define the technical baseline,system-level requirements, and Interface Control Documents (ICDs) for nano(CubeSat) and microsatellite platforms.

3. Lead the design, development,simulation, and optimisation of satellite subsystems, including:

• Attitude Determination and Control Systems (ADCS), including detumbling, pointing accuracy analysis, and reaction wheel/magnetorquer sizing.
• Electrical Power Systems (EPS), including solar array sizing, battery management, and Power Distribution Units (PDUs).
• RF Communications systems, including telecommand and telemetry (TT&C) links, payload data downlinks (UHF/VHF, S-band, X-band), and link budget analyses.
• On-Board Computers (OBC), command sequences, flight software, and Fault Detection, Isolation and Recovery (FDIR) loops.

4. Lead Assembly, Integration and Testing (AIT) activities in cleanroom environments, including hardware fabrication, wire harnessing, hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL) testing, and system validation.

5. Manage environmental qualification and launch readiness campaigns, including structural and vibration testing, thermal vacuum (TVAC) cycling, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing, and compliance with launch provider requirements.

6. Develop flight procedures and ground segment software, and lead satellite commissioning, payload deployment, anomaly resolution, and daily orbital health monitoring to ensure successful mission operations throughout the satellite lifecycle.

7. Lead programme planning, stakeholder engagement, resource allocation, technical risk management, and cross-functional coordination to ensure successful delivery of satellite missions and space programmes.

8. Provide technical leadership and strategic direction for space programmes, ensuring successful mission delivery while mentoring engineers, programme participants, and project teams.

Training Program Development and Delivery

1. Design and deliver comprehensive training programs on satellite building, covering topics such as:

• Systems engineering
• Subsystems (power, communication, attitude control, etc.)
• Payload integration
• Satellite testing and deployment protocols

2. Develop instructional materials, including manuals, presentations, and hands-on projects, to suit various audience levels (youth, professionals, and educators).

3. Conduct hands-on workshops and labs, guiding participants through real-world nano-satellite assembly and testing activities.

4. Collaborate with academic institutions, industry partners, and space agencies to expand training opportunities and resources.

5. Other Topics outside of Satellite Engineering that would be good to cover:

• Space mission design and planning
• Principles of Space Engineering and Applications
• Project Management in Space

6. Lead the development and management of executive professional programmes in satellite engineering, space systems, and related disciplines.

7. Conduct lectures, workshops, and training sessions for executives, professionals, undergraduates, and youths participating in the programmes.

8. Manage programme planning, stakeholder engagement, scheduling, resource allocation, and programme delivery to ensure successful learning outcomes.

Evaluation and Continuous Improvement

1. Evaluate training program outcomes through feedback, assessments, and participant performance.

2. Continuously update training content to reflect advances in nano-satellite technology and industry trends.

3. Provide mentorship to participants during and after training programs to support their career or project goals.

Experience, Skills and Qualifications (Required)

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in nano-satellite development, including systems engineering, design, integration, testing, launch and mission operations.
• Strong understanding of satellite subsystems, including power systems, communications, payload integration, and attitude determination and control.
• Proficiency with satellite design tools (e.g., STK, MATLAB, SolidWorks, or similar).
• Experience with satellite testing equipment and procedures, including vibration testing, thermal testing, and deployment mechanisms.
• Excellent communication and teaching skills, with the ability to simplify complex concepts for diverse audiences.
• Experienced in conducting training programmes for youths, undergraduates and professionals
• Experience in developing and managing executive education, professional certification, or technical training programmes
• Experiences: Nano-Satellite Engineering
• Apply expertise in designing, building, and testing nano-satellites, including CubeSats and other small satellite platforms.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure training programs align with the latest developments in satellite technology and industry standards.
• Maintain and operate testing facilities, including cleanrooms, thermal vacuum chambers, and other satellite testing equipment.

Experience, Skills and Qualifications (Preferred)

• Master’s degree or certification in satellite technology or systems engineering.
• Experience in delivering STEM or technical training programs.
• Familiarity with satellite mission operations and ground station integration.
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, or MATLAB for satellite systems.
• Experience working with space agencies or commercial satellite companies.

Key Attributes

• Passionate about inspiring and educating others in satellite technology.
• Innovative and adaptable in designing hands-on learning experiences.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail in both technical and instructional tasks.
• Team-oriented, with the ability to collaborate across departments and with external stakeholders.