Astroscale UK is looking for a Senior Simulation Software Engineer to join our team at our brand-new state-of-the-art office in Harwell, UK. This is a fantastic opportunity to be instrumental in the future development of a key component of our innovative satellite servicing spacecraft, with a vision of making a positive contribution to the problem that is space debris. To achieve this objective, our missions rely on powerful satellite simulators for validating and preparing the mission operations. Thus, we need to develop state-of-the-art simulators in-house, with responsibilities across the whole lifecycle, from design and development to testing and deployment. The candidate will provide technical expertise for the development of simulators at Astroscale UK. You will be simulating satellites in the toughest conditions and performing manoeuvres in close proximity to other space assets. As a senior member of the team, you will work on all aspects of software development on our state-of-the-art simulators, from analysis and design, through to testing and deployment as well as mentor more junior team members. Responsibilities Design, implement, and test spacecraft simulators as part of a team of software and aerospace engineers. Provide technical expertise as a subject matter expert in simulator development. Develop and integrate spacecraft simulation software based on user requirements. Validate, configure, and deploy simulation software in Astroscale’s environments. Perform maintenance activities on simulators to ensure high availability for users. Support in writing standard operational scripts for the customers. Mentor more junior colleagues. Support the team lead in maintaining oversight of the overall project state. Essential Skills A university degree in computer science, electronics, aerospace engineering, or a closely related discipline. Fluency in spoken and written English Significant experience in designing models based on stakeholder needs, with a demonstrated ability to translate requirements into practical and fit-for-purpose implementations. A strong track record of developing multiple space sub-system equipment models through all phases, demonstrating ownership and technical leadership. Hands-on experience in setting up, driving, and maintaining complex technical projects with a commitment to quality and continuous improvement. Deep, practical experience managing QA and CI tools as part of a rigorous development workflow. Professional experience with unit, integration, and system testing, ensuring software robustness in operational environments. Strong ability to debug and validate spacecraft system models, demonstrating analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. In-depth experience of C++ development on Linux, with a mindset for writing maintainable, reliable and performant code. Hands-on experience with ECSS-SMP, the SIMULUS Suite, and/or other SMP spacecraft simulation frameworks, with a deep understanding of their architecture and application. Desirable skills Understanding of object-oriented design using UML and design patterns. Familiarity with Agile software development, tools, and methods. Knowledge of ECSS-E-70 (PUS) and SCOS MIB. Scripting experience with JavaScript. Experience with Make and CMake. Benefits Competitive base salary Opportunity to work with a highly talented international team working on cutting edge technology Flexible working around core hours Hybrid working available (dependent on individual role requirements) Optional 9/75 working pattern 25 days holiday (increasing yearly up to a maximum of 28 days) 8 days Bank Holiday Life insurance and long-term sick pay Private healthcare (taxable benefit) Relocation allowance Visa sponsorship for employees considered New state of the art office and cleanroom facility Regular social events⯠Location Astroscale UK (Harwell), with potential for some travel to Astroscale Japan (Tokyo) About Astroscale Astroscale is the first private company with a vision to secure the safe and sustainable development of space for the benefit of future generations, and the only company dedicated to in-orbit servicing across all orbits. Founded in 2013, we are developing innovative and scalable solutions across the spectrum of in-orbit servicing missions, including End of Life services, Active Debris Removal, In-situ Space Situational Awareness and Life Extension Services, to create sustainable space systems and mitigate against the hazardous build-up of debris in space. Note to recruitment agencies: Astroscale operates a preferred Supplier List, and we do not accept unsolicited agency approaches. Please do not forward candidate CVs or details in response to this advert, or to any Astroscale employee.