UK Space Agency careers leaflet - HTML
Updated 23 July 2024
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1. Careers in space
The sky is not the limit.
1.1 Why work in space?
Space is one of the fastest growing sectors of the UK economy and employs about 50,000 people across the country. With the motivation, and the right skills and qualifications, you could join them.
Careers in the space sector cover everything from building spacecraft and designing satellites, to coordinating disaster relief and analysing the impact of climate change on our planet.
You could also help develop new technology, search for signs of life on distant worlds, or contribute to the growing field of space sustainability.
The space industry employs engineers, scientists, accountants, lawyers, communicators and project managers. There are jobs in the public and private sectors, in universities, major multinational companies and small enterprises.
UK teams are building some of the world’s largest – and smallest – satellites, and the most advance space robotics. They are constructing the first European Mars rover, working on missions to the Moon, Mercury and Jupiter, building the TRUTHS climate observatory to better track climate change, protecting our national security and developing crucial technologies that support space sustainability to clean up space debris.
British engineers are developing new satellite communications services. Innovators have built the first colour video from space. Scientists are using satellite technology to monitor life in the oceans and the possibilities of life on other planets.
1.2 What skills and qualifications do I need?
Most careers in space require innovation, creativity, teamwork and problem solving. Many jobs cover multiple disciplines and, as space is an international endeavour, they often involve working with partners around the world. Studying subjects like the sciences, engineering, IT, maths or geography will put you in a strong position for a wide range of space careers. There are also a range of roles that cross the boundaries between STEM and business-related fields such as law, business administration and finance.
There are plenty of opportunities available for apprentices and graduates. Apprenticeships, internships, technical and higher education (from undergraduate to postgraduate) qualifications are pivotal in equipping you with the knowledge, skills and experience needed to support your career in the space industry.
Engineering
Teams of engineers work together to design and build spacecraft, robots, instruments and satellite sensors. They develop practical skills and need to co-operate to solve problems. As an engineer, you might be working on a new Earth monitoring satellite, propulsion system or even missions to another planet.
Space Science
From discovering planets that might support life to unravelling the mysteries of Mercury, space scientists and astronomers are tackling fundamental questions about the nature of the universe. Scientists work with satellite technology to learn more about the Earth. Biologists use satellite sensors to investigate the effects of plastic pollution, and satellite data helps chemists and physicists predict climate change.
Data and Software
From coordinating the response to natural disasters to developing computer algorithms for mapping urban development, there is a wealth of opportunities to help deliver services from space and make a difference to people’s lives through the power of data and AI. This is one of the biggest growth areas in the UK space sector and organisations are looking for people with a range of skills to harness space data.
Essential Support Services
The UK’s success in space relies on a whole host of critical supporting roles, with the sector in need of project managers, policy and finance professionals, lawyers, business development experts, communications specialists and HR teams. Each of these professions has their own qualification routes, and there is something out there for everyone.
1.3 How do I find out more?
There are many routes into a space career and plenty of support available to help you. Here are some links to useful websites:
Support for students and professionals throughout their careers, with helpful advice, job profiles, and case studies.
Aimed at young people, teachers and schools, providing careers information, resources, competitions, role models and training.
Collection of videos showcasing diverse careers, from Aerospace Engineers to Space Lawyers.
Find out more about the Science and Technology Facilities Council’s Apprenticeship Programme.
Space Placements in Industry (SPIN) provides university students with space-related, 8-week placements with employers.
A searchable catalogue of UK space sector organisations which can be useful to identify companies in your area.
Kickstart your future by reviewing your options at Skills for Careers.