About the job

The Head of System Modelling and Mission Analysis (SMMA) at Orbex will lead a multidisciplinary team responsible for the design, analysis, and performance assessment of Orbex’s Prime and Proxima launch vehicles, encompassing end-to-end system simulation and mission-level analysis for satellites, launch vehicles, and interplanetary missions. The role includes overseeing the development of integrated physics-based and functional models of launch vehicle subsystems such as propulsion, fluids, thermal, and aerodynamics, performing trajectory optimization, orbital mechanics, mission planning, and flight safety analysis, and supporting trade studies to optimize spacecraft architecture, subsystem design, and mission parameters. The position requires collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, establishing advanced modelling toolchains, enforcing modelling standards, verification & validation processes, and configuration control. Candidates must have significant experience in space systems engineering, mission analysis, model development, MBSE, and mission-level simulation, along with strong leadership, organizational development, and technical decision-making skills. The role is based in Forres, Scotland, and involves on-site work due to security and export control requirements. Orbex provides visa sponsorship and relocation support, along with benefits including 34 days of paid holiday, pension scheme, cycle-to-work and electric vehicle schemes, group life insurance, and employee assistance programs.