Lead ADCS Engineer

Meritus are seeking an experienced ADCS engineer to play a pivotal role in the development of a novel spacecraft platform with unique dynamic and environmental challenges. This is a hands on opportunity to shape system architecture, guide critical design decisions, and deliver high-performance control solutions from ground testing through in orbit operations.

This role is completely onsite in Berkshire. The role is paying £400-£500pd outside of IR35. Extended hours may be required. Contract can be up to 9 months in length.

As part of a multidisciplinary engineering team, you will be responsible for ensuring precise and reliable spacecraft orientation and trajectory control, supporting the success of a highly dynamic first of its kind orbital regime.

• Architect and Build ADCS Systems: Lead the design and integration of spacecraft attitude control solutions, incorporating advanced control algorithms, sensors, and actuators tailored to mission needs.

• Develop Control Algorithms: Implement sophisticated algorithms to manage various pointing modes and orientation requirements under dynamic space conditions.

• Simulate and Analyze: Build and operate simulation environments to validate system behaviour. Model sensors and actuators to forecast performance and refine control strategies.

• Select and Integrate Hardware: Define specifications and evaluate vendors for ADCS components. Ensure seamless subsystem integration across spacecraft hardware and software stacks.

• Test and Validate: Plan and execute extensive ground testing and HIL simulations. Support flight validation, commissioning, and anomaly resolution in orbit.

• Support Flight Operations: Engage with flight teams to perform on-orbit calibrations, manoeuvre planning, and real-time issue response throughout the satellite's mission.

• Document and Communicate: Generate clear, comprehensive technical documentation for internal use and customer deliverables. Present findings and design updates across project stakeholders.

• Educational Background: Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related discipline is required. A Master's or higher degree is a plus.

• Relevant Experience: 2-5+ years of experience in spacecraft ADCS development, including real-world testing, simulation, and on-orbit support.

• Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of ADCS components-reaction wheels, star trackers, magnetometers, IMUs, sun sensors, and magnetorquers. Prior work with spacecraft GNC systems is highly beneficial.

• Software Skills: Proficient in C/C++ for embedded systems. Experienced with Python and MATLAB for simulation and data analysis. Familiar with Git or similar version control systems.

• Systems Thinking: Deep knowledge of closed-loop control systems, orbital mechanics, and dynamics. Comfortable conducting trade-off studies to optimize system design.

• Testing Proficiency: Experienced in designing and executing HIL (hardware-in-the-loop) tests and simulation-based validation. Skilled at troubleshooting and resolving integration challenges.

This is a rare opportunity to apply your ADCS expertise to a truly novel mission, working at the cutting edge of orbital technology in a fast-paced, hardware-focused space startup environment.