Job Description

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

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