Overview:
Joining the AIT team of a key client in the UK, the Lead AIT Engineer is responsible for leading the planning, coordination, and delivery of spacecraft and payload Assembly, Integration & Test (AIT) and Environmental Verification Test (EVT) activities during the mission ground test phase.
As a core member of the project team, the role ensures the successful integration, verification, and delivery of fully tested systems through in-house and external test campaigns.
Responsibilities:
- Lead planning, scheduling, and execution of AIT and EVT activities across all system levels
-
Work as part of the core project team alongside Project Manager, AIT Manager, and Systems Engineer
-
Manage and coordinate test operators and engineers, including deputising where required
-
Define and coordinate AIT support equipment (EGSE, MGSE, and test hardware)
-
Develop and implement integration, verification, and test strategies aligned to system requirements
-
Produce and maintain test plans, procedures, and documentation with full traceability
-
Oversee and support system-level integration and testing activities
-
Ensure compliance with engineering standards, quality processes, and safety practices
-
Maintain safe, efficient, and organised cleanroom operations
-
Liaise with internal teams and external stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle
-
Support bid and proposal activities as required
-
Contribute to ground segment commissioning and LEOP activities
-
Deliver training and technical guidance to internal teams and customer engineers
-
Present technical progress and outcomes at design and project reviews
Qualifications:
- Degree, HND, or HNC in Engineering or a Science discipline
Essential skills:
- Strong leadership and team management capability in technical environments
-
Proven hands-on experience in spacecraft or complex system integration and testing
-
Ability to plan and deliver complex technical activities or work packages
-
Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive, ownership-driven approach
-
Solid understanding of verification and validation principles
-
High attention to detail with a strong quality focus
-
Excellent communication and presentation skills
-
Ability to work independently and make sound engineering decisions
-
Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools, including Project
-
Flexible approach with willingness to support demanding schedules and travel
Desired skills:
- Experience with EGSE systems, including scripting or operation
-
Knowledge of spaceflight materials and processes
-
Familiarity with RF or communications systems
-
Experience using electronic test and measurement equipment
-
Previous involvement in LEOP or commissioning activities
Experience:
- Demonstrated experience delivering system-level integration and test activities on spaceflight or similarly complex hardware
-
Proven background in test planning, coordination, and execution across project phases
-
Experience leading or managing engineering teams in fast-paced environments
-
Broad engineering knowledge with a strong grounding in electrical or electronic systems
What do I need before I apply:
- This role requires on-site customer support 5 days per week in the Guildford area.
Benefits:
- Collaborative working environment – we stand shoulder to shoulder with our clients and our peers through good times and challenges
-
We empower all passionate technology loving professionals by allowing them to expand their skills and take part in inspiring projects
-
Expleo Academy - enables you to acquire and develop the right skills by delivering a suite of accredited training courses
-
Competitive company benefits
- Always working as one team, our people are not afraid to think big and challenge the status quo
As a Disability Confident Committed Employer we have committed to:-
Ensure our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible
-
Communicating and promoting vacancies
-
Offering an interview to disabled people who meet the minimum criteria for the job
-
Anticipating and providing reasonable adjustments as required
-
Supporting any existing employee who acquires a disability or long term health condition, enabling them to stay in work at least one activity that will make a difference for disabled people
“We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age”.
We treat everyone fairly and equitably across the organisation, including providing any additional support and adjustments needed for everyone to thrive
#LI-DS1
