Blog

As the world becomes more fascinated than ever with the knowledge and data gained through Space exploration, the UK Space industry and the jobs available grows in response. From partnership projects with The European Space Agency (ESA), the UK Space Agency (a Government directorate which considers how we spend our investment in Space and Revenue generation as 17% of GDP relies on satellite services) and internationally, the UK is currently excelling in human space flight including the first Para-Astronaut. However, there is much more to careers in space than flight itself. as our blog aims to demonstrate. 

The variety of roles in the industry 

The space sector is rapidly growing offering diverse career opportunities, from engineering and technology development to space science and exploration. With advancements in satellite technology, space tourism, and planetary research, this field combines innovation with the chance to shape humanity's future beyond Earth.  Here are few the key and emerging roles:

Satellite Design and Manufacture - this area involves creating and producing satellites for communication, navigation, and research. Professionals here include technicians who assemble components and design engineers who develop innovative systems for use in space.

Technicians and  Design Engineers - responsible for assembling and testing spacecraft components, ensuring precision and quality. Design engineers focus on creating efficient, cutting-edge satellite systems to meet specific mission goals.

Sciences – Roles in this category focus on understanding space and its effects on humans and the environment:

• Astronauts: Train to live and work in space, conducting experiments and missions.
• Astrochemists: Study the chemical makeup of space objects, such as stars and planets.
• Astrobiologists: Explore the possibility of life beyond Earth by examining extreme environments.
• Astronomers: Observe and analyze celestial objects and phenomena.
• Space Physicians: Focus on the health and safety of astronauts, developing medical protocols for space missions.

Engineering and Computer Science - playing critical roles developing spacecraft, propulsion systems, and advanced software. They ensure space missions are technologically sound and function flawlessly.

Astronaut Instructors/trainers – preparing astronauts for missions, offering technical, physical, and psychological training. Many are experienced educators or specialists in human performance and safety.

Space Psychologists - Space psychology is vital due to the human aspect of isolation in space, they need to check recruits are down to earth, resilient, calm in a crisis, etc.; communicate with them while in space and support the engineers to design the spaces they will be living in.

Space Art - another unique career within the industry, with digital artists, visualisers and musicians designing pieces to inspire conversations. The industry desperately needs people with creative skills. CAD skills can also be a useful tool for entry to some roles.

Space Law - An emerging field that addresses legal issues in space exploration, such as ownership, resource usage, and international agreements. This ensures responsible and ethical use of space.

Business - The commercial space sector is expanding rapidly, requiring professionals skilled in investment, business development, and growth strategy. Startups and private companies are key players in this dynamic area. 

Entry requirements

The National Space Academy (NSA) in the UK has trained teachers in state sector schools to deliver student talks about the range of careers and to consider STEM possibilities.  They suggest that they aren’t looking for specific subjects for early entry careers, rather the passion and the skill set for a Space sector career; however, should young people wish to enter after a degree related to a particular role (such as Space Physician, Space Psychologist, Astro Chemist, Astro Biologist, Computer Scientist, etc.) they will need to meet the entry requirements for their chosen degree programme and studying any of the following subjects: Science, Engineering, IT and Maths as well as a related subject such as Geography, could be beneficial for a wide range of space careers.

Is an apprenticeship an option?

The UK Space sector is facing a skills shortage and is looking to address this through apprenticeships. This article from September 2024 shares insight on the types of apprenticeships available in the UK, the levels available (from Level 2 to degree and masters apprenticeships at Level 6 and 7), as well as some companies notable for their UK apprenticeship programmes tailored to the Space sector:UK Space Apprenticeships: Shaping the Future of the Space Industry | UK Space Jobs, these companies include:

1. Airbus UK
2. Lockheed Martin UK
3. OneWeb
4. Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL)
5. UK Space Agency
6. Thales UK
7. Reaction Engines
8. Immarsat
9. BAE Systems
10. QinetiQ
11. Rolls Royce
12. RHEA Group
13. Spaceport Cornwall
14. Skyrora
15. Astroscale UK

The article also discusses the benefits and the challenges of pursuing a Space sector apprenticeship, as well as how to apply through company websites, job portals, and apprenticeship providers' platforms.

Space Careers UK also offers some insights and suggests some other possible companies to approach: SpaceCareers.uk - Apprenticeships.  They also have space careers resources and advice pages: SpaceCareers.uk

Other useful information

The UK Government has a dedicated Space Skills and Career resources page: Space skills and careers resources - GOV.UK which provides and overview, useful websites, resources for children and young people, career-matching and how to find an apprenticeship as well as detail on sourcing relevant work experience.

Listening to related podcasts as part of your Beyond the Syllabus research into Space Careers may prove useful, some good examples are:

Best space and astronomy podcasts | BBC Sky at Night Magazine

The 12 Best Space Podcasts on Spotify

Podcasts - NASA

ESA Explores: space careers - ESA Explores | Podcast on Spotify (or other podcast platforms)

The Space Policy Pioneers Podcast | Podcast on Spotify

Coming soon: Space Minds Podcast - SpaceNews

Undertaking a free online MOOC course related to Space or Space careers with providers like FutureLearn - Space Training Catalogue, Coursera and specialist providers such as: Imperative MOOCs and From Space With Love can also expand your knowledge and skills ahead of future work experience and degree, apprenticeship or job applications.

Resources for staff at schools, colleges and universities  

Space Awareness offers MOOC courses for primary and secondary school teachers and science communication professionals interested in developing their skills and using Space for education within their lesson plans or cross-curricular learning.

National Space Academy | UKSA Space to Learn offers talks to schools from expert professionals. There are eligibility criteria to meet, as these are funded talks, but its worth getting in touch (see the weblink) to see what the team can offer to your school or college.

STEM Learning has volunteer STEM Ambassadors who can help support every element of your STEM curriculum and provide real-life examples of varied STEM careers. Attend a webinar to find out more: How to Access STEM Volunteers - for Educators and register as an educator here to add an activity on the dashboard or search ‘offers’, you will then be matched with a STEM Ambassador. 

Sourcing work experience

The UK Space Org has some great information and advice about the Space Placements in Imdustry (SPIN) programme and also recommends the EDT’s Year in Industry programme:

Pre- and Early-Career Opportunities

EDT Year in Industry programmes - Platinum Placements

For virtual work experience opportunities and information, see:

Aerospace Work Experience | Springpod

Real-World Work Experience | Virtual Internships

Virtual work experience | Prospects.ac.uk 

Other helpful resources

National Space Academy - Resources

Royal Aeronautical Society - Careers & Education

Esero: Careers in Space videos

Space-related educational resources - UK Space Agency - GOV.UK 

Conclusion

Embarking on a Space career is not just about finding a job; it’s about exploring endless possibilities and maybe even making history.  By choosing the right education, gaining practical experience, developing key skills, and actively engaging with the Space exploration community, you can pave the way for a fulfilling and impactful career.

At FutureSmart Careers, we know that the landscape of careers is ever changing and young people need to be equipped for their career journey whatever career they are considering pursuing.  We provide expert careers advice and guidance and resources so that young people can make confident and informed choices about their futures.

Check out our other blogs for insights into other career areas or information on Work Experience, Apprenticeships, UCAS Clearing and more.

If you would like careers guidance or support for students in your school, college or child, please get in touch at enquiries@futuresmartcareers.co.uk  

Images by Freepik