Flight Software Validation & Verification Engineer(UK Visa Sponsorship Available)

Automotive Jobs
Uk
November 10, 2025
Full Time Permanent
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Job Description

About Astroscale

Astroscale UK is a pioneering space technology company committed to the sustainable and secure use of outer space. Founded in 2013, Astroscale has grown into a global leader in on-orbit servicing and debris removal, working to ensure that space remains a safe and accessible environment for generations to come.

We partner with major organisations such as JAXA, the European Space Agency (ESA), the UK Space Agency, and the U.S. Space Force, advancing technologies that support a circular space economy — where satellites are routinely inspected, repaired, and responsibly retired.

Our successful missions — including ELSA-d, ADRAS-J, and the upcoming ELSA-M — demonstrate Astroscale’s leadership in rendezvous and proximity operations. Join us as we continue to redefine the future of space sustainability.

 Role Summary

We are looking for a Validation and Verification Engineer to strengthen our Flight Software Team in Harwell. You will play a vital role in validating and verifying embedded real-time software that powers Astroscale’s orbital debris removal and satellite servicing missions.

This role suits professionals with experience in critical software testing, embedded systems, or spacecraft software verification, who are eager to contribute to meaningful, cutting-edge projects in the aerospace sector.

 Key Responsibilities

  • Conduct verification and validation (V&V) activities for onboard flight software used in Astroscale’s missions.
  • Review and analyse technical documentation, including Software Requirement Specifications (SRS), Interface Control Documents (ICD), and Design Documents (SDD).
  • Design and implement use cases and test scripts to ensure software reliability and compliance.
  • Develop and maintain simulation and testing environments for embedded flight software.
  • Identify and integrate suitable test equipment and automated solutions to support software validation.
  • Collaborate with subsystem and system-level teams to define software requirements and develop testing strategies.
  • Participate in cross-team knowledge transfer, contributing to best practices across Astroscale’s global operations.

 Essential Skills and Experience

  • Strong hands-on experience in designing and executing test cases for mission-critical software.
  • Proficiency in automated test scripting, particularly with Python (including dependency management and virtual environments).
  • Practical experience with validation facilities, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL), or numerical simulation tools.
  • Proficiency in Git for source control.
  • Proven experience in software verification and validation for real-time embedded systems (C/C++).
  • Understanding of communication protocols (PUS, CCSDS, CAN, SpaceWire).
  • Familiarity with ECSS standards, especially ECSS-E-ST-40C.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently within a collaborative environment.

 Desirable Attributes

  • Experience with VxWorks or RTEMS real-time operating systems.
  • Knowledge of SPARC V8 or PowerPC architectures.
  • Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines, UML, or NASA’s cFS framework.
  • Strong background in Linux administration, scripting, and build tools (e.g., shell scripts, Makefiles).
  • Experience developing test environments and interactive applications using Qt.
  • Understanding of mission design lifecycles, from concept through to deployment and operations.

 What We Offer

  • Competitive salary and benefits package aligned with UK aerospace industry standards.
  • 25 days annual leave, increasing to 28 with service, plus 8 UK public holidays.
  • Flexible working hours and hybrid work options.
  • Private healthcare, life insurance, and long-term sick pay.
  • Optional 9/75 flexible work pattern.
  • Relocation allowance (where applicable).
  • Access to a state-of-the-art office and cleanroom facility in Harwell.
  • Regular team-building and social events.
  • Opportunity to collaborate with a diverse, international team of experts shaping the future of sustainable spaceflight.

 Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

At Astroscale, we are proud to maintain an inclusive, fair, and accessible recruitment process. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, including women, minority ethnic groups, and individuals with disabilities.
We are open to reasonable adjustments and job-sharing arrangements to ensure that all candidates can fully participate in our recruitment process and thrive in their roles.

Application Details

  • Location: Harwell, Oxfordshire, UK
  • Department: Flight Software Team
  • Type: Full-time (Permanent)
  • Visa Sponsorship: Available
  • Closing Date: Open until filled
  • Start Date: Flexible, based on notice period

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