Product Assurance Manager/Engineer - Space Instrumentation

The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment, which enjoys an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. Our research plays a key role in tackling many global challenges, from reducing our carbon emissions to developing vaccines during a pandemic.

Oxford Physics is one of the largest and most eminent departments in Europe – pursuing forefront research alongside training the next generation of leaders in Physics.

With an academic staff of almost one hundred our activities range from fundamental particles to the furthest reaches of the universe to manipulating matter on an atomic scale. Oxford physicists are probing new ways to harness solar energy, modelling the Earth's atmosphere to predict the future climate, exploring computation on the quantum scale and executing calculations that reveal the fundamental structure of space and time.

We are seeking and experienced Product Assurance Manager/Engineer to join our Oxford Space Instrumentation group. The position fits within an existing team of technical specialists, who develop and deliver space flight parts for a range of research projects for NASA, ESA, and other space customers. This position will lead the Product and Quality Assurance aspects of our flight rated instrument development. Through this role, you will work on the next generation of instrumentation for upcoming lunar, Earth observation and planetary missions.

As part of a relatively small and dynamic group, the post holder will have significant influence in driving the key quality aspects of current and future development, and the opportunity to work in a diverse range of projects. The post holder will have the opportunity to work at every stage of mission development, from proposal and product specification to delivery.

This post is open ended

As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ wellbeing and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including: 

• An excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days annual leave
• A comprehensive range of childcare services
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle loan scheme
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs 

This role will lead product assurance and quality management aspects across the Space Instrumentation group. This will involve key responsibilities including the following. Leadership and guidance of the wider team on PA/QA. Liaising with external customers on PA/QA aspects. Support and conduct Product Assurance activities on individual projects. Contribute to PA/QA estimates for future project bids. Line management and development of other group members where appropriate. 

The successful applicant must be educated to degree or higher in a Physics or related subject, or have equivalent relevant work experience, and have background in product assurance and quality management systems. Knowledge of the ECSS or equivalent relevant system of Product Assurance standards (e.g ISO9001 with application to space related work). Knowledge of configuration management and its application to product and quality assurance. Evidence of  great written and oral communication skills, and the ability to interact positively with external stakeholders. 

Experience with infrared or imaging and space instruments development, and/or vacuum and cryogenic systems and experience of COSHH and other risk assessments is desirable but not essential 

Application Process 

You will be required to upload a covering letter/supporting statement, CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application. 

The closing date for applications 12 noon on 18 August 2025

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