Functional Validation Engineer - Satellite Payload Software- 6 month contract [26176]

Job description

Role Overview The Functional Validation Engineer - Payload Software (PLSW) is responsible for validating the Payload Software on a telecoms satellite programme, which controls and manages in-flight payload mission execution for the Digital Transparent Processor. The role focuses on translating functional validation requirements into automated test procedures, executing tests across simulation and hardware environments, and supporting software verification and non-regression activities. Environment & Context The role operates within the Functional Validation (FV) team, working closely with Functional Validation Architects, Technical Leads, and software development teams. Validation activities are performed using both the SATSIM numerical bench and hardware RF test benches to verify software performance against specified requirements. Activities Analyse functional validation requirements and convert them into automated test procedures (APs) using Java; Develop, maintain and execute automated test scripts and associated configuration files; Prepare hardware and simulation environments for test execution, including SATSIM and RF test benches; Configure and operate RF equipment, including modems, signal generators, spectrum analysers and DC power supplies; Execute functional validation and software non-regression test campaigns against new PLSW releases; Verify software behaviour against defined requirements and acceptance criteria; Produce clear and concise test execution reports and communicate results to the FV Technical Lead and FV Architect; Investigate test observations, anomalies and unexpected behaviours, performing initial analysis and fault isolation; Record and manage defects, observations and validation issues using Jira and established FV processes; Identify and report discrepancies between SATSIM and hardware bench results to improve simulation fidelity; Upload test sessions, logs and evidence into FV tooling, ensuring full traceability of validation activities; Develop and maintain offline processing and automation tools using Java, Python or other appropriate technologies; Support test strategy, test specification development, traceability activities and validation documentation; Collaborate with geographically distributed stakeholders, including teams located in Toulouse and Portsmouth; Proactively manage dependencies, risks and blockers, escalating issues early to maintain delivery schedules. Essential Skills & Experience Experience in software verification, validation or integration testing within a complex engineering environment; Ability to interpret detailed validation requirements and develop robust automated test procedures; Strong Java development skills for automated test script creation and maintenance. Experience of Linux-based environments; Experience using source control and software lifecycle tools, including Git, SVN, Jira and Confluence; Knowledge of software development and validation processes, including traceability and configuration management; Experience of hardware and software integration testing; Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills with the ability to investigate complex technical issues. RF & Satellite Communications Knowledge Strong understanding of RF principles and test equipment setup, including: RF signal generators; Spectrum analysers; Modems; DC power supplies. Experience working with hardware RF test environments; Knowledge of CCSDS standards and space communications protocols, including: Telecommand (TC) and Telemetry (TM); PUS packets; TM Frames; TC Segments; CLTUs; CLCW. Tool & Technology Skills Essential Java development; Software verification and validation; RF equipment configuration and operation; Linux; CCSDS standards; Git/SVN; Jira/Confluence. Desirable Python development; MobaXterm; Satellite communications systems; Aerospace or space industry experience; Safety-critical software validation experience; Experience with numerical simulation environments such as SATSIM. Behavioural Competencies Excellent written and verbal communication skills; Ability to work effectively with distributed teams and technical stakeholders; Strong attention to detail and quality focus; Proactive approach to issue identification, dependency management and risk mitigation; Ability to work independently within a safety-critical and highly controlled engineering environment; Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple validation activities concurrently; This job is located in Portsmouth, United Kingdom. If you think you have what it takes for this job, please send your CV (in English and in Word or PDF) by clicking on the button “Apply for this job” quoting job UK-HP-26176. An exciting and dynamic international working environment awaits you! Inclusive and committed employer, our company works every day to combat all forms of discrimination and promote a respectful working environment. That's why, committed to gender diversity and overall inclusivity, we encourage all applications and profiles. Last apply date: 30/10/2026! HE Space is a successful international space company, specialised in providing managed services and human resources to the international space sector for over 40 years. We hire space experts all over Europe across the whole spectrum of space-related activities, from engineering to science, software development, operations, marketing, finance and administration. Our employees contribute towards a wide range of groundbreaking space programmes including Galileo and Copernicus, ExoMars, Iris2, ESA BASS, ESA GSPT, LISA Pathfinder, Euclid, the Ariane and Vega launchers as well as the International Space Station. HE Space has joined forces with CS Group and Sopra Steria to lead the engineering and digital space market in Europe and to provide highly skilled consulting. We are passionate about people and invest in you to support the development of the European space industry.