Europe’s €6 Billion Bet on Ground Systems: The Rising Demand for Satellite Ground Talent

Research conducted by Satellite Markets & Research revealed that by 2026, 90% of in-orbit capacity will come from non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) satellites, further increasing the demand for advanced ground systems. As the global space economy continues to evolve, ground systems have become a growing sector for professionals seeking to shape their careers and fundamental for collecting and distributing data. Most people associate the space industry with rockets, astronauts, and satellites. However, these systems can’t advance without the ground systems that keep them connected.

A Sector Combining Hardware, Networking, Cybersecurity:

The European Space Agency’s ECSAT facility in Harwell already employs more than 100 people with plans to double it by 2030 to support satellite telecommunications, in-orbit servicing, and advanced manufacturing.

For decades, satellite roles focused on engineering. However, the rise of the geospatial sector has meant we don’t just need people who can build satellites, but also people who can interpret satellite data, design user platforms, shape policies, and share news about what’s happening in space. This is especially true for ground systems as it combines hardware, networking, cybersecurity, software, and user experience into one complex ecosystem.

Europe’s Strategic Push for Ground Systems Professionals:

Ground systems are becoming fundamental for Europe’s long-term space strategy. The European Space Agency revealed that their seeking approximately €1 billion in funding for a new satellite constellation designed for both civil and defence use. This program will rely heavily on advanced ground infrastructure to handle data flows and ensure security. Industry experts predict that over the next decade investments could grow to as much as €6 billion. For Europe, this highlights that the future of space power relies not just on launch capabilities, but also on strong ground-based systems that enable and protect missions.

The UK’s Investment in Space and Satellite:

The UK’s space sector already employs more than 55,000 people. According to the UK Space Agency, around 16% of the UK’s GDP relies on space technology. This highlights how dependent everyday life has become on satellites for services such as weather forecasting, mobile connectivity, broadcasting, navigation, and even WiFi.

The UK’s space industry is at the forefront of multiple innovations:

• AI infrastructure: data centres in space to power artificial intelligence within the next decade.
• Climate solutions: including plans for orbital solar panels that avoid atmospheric interference.
• Defence and security: where satellites are indispensable for GPS, surveillance, and intelligence.

Growing space technology is fundamental for the country’s economic growth. The Chairman of UKspace Doug Liddle stated: “with the groundbreaking success of private companies like SpaceX, we’re on the brink of a full-scale space economy.”

Recruitments Challenge for Satellite Engineers:

According to the SpaceSkills census, computer science and electronic engineering graduates earn up to 30% more than aerospace graduates. As the industry continues to grow, competitive pay will become a non-negotiable and as a result it has become the main reason people leave.

The challenge of recruiting top talent lies in offering both purpose and attractive compensation.

The Real Challenge:

As satellite communications continues to expand and the space economy surpasses $546 billion, the real challenge is linking skilled professionals with the organisations driving innovation. It’s fundamental for organisations to highlight the purpose behind their work. For recruiters, their role is clear: connect industry goals with talent capable of achieving them.

Experts Group International: Your Partner in Satellite Technology Talent:

With the skills gap widening and competition for top talent intensifying, space and satellite firms are increasingly partnering with specialist recruiters. Our hands-on, human-first approach helps both organisations and professionals navigate this fast-changing environment, where top talent is often passive.

Whether you’re an employer or candidate in the space and satellite sector facing an uncertain market, we offer expert guidance and consultation to help you thrive.

Hiring Space Sector Talent:

• Targeted Talent Access: Over 9 years of cross-sector experience has allowed us to build one of the most extensive networks of specialists across aerospace, defence, and satellite industries.
• Specialist Expertise: We understand the diverse leadership and technical skills needed for critical roles such as engineers, project managers, and sales managers.
• End-to-End Recruitment Management: Our dedicated team sources, prepares, and manages top talent full-time, giving you a clear advantage in securing candidates within a competitive market.

For Space Sector Professionals:

• Strategic Representation: Gain access to top companies, competitive salaries, and comprehensive benefit.
• CV and Application Support: Work with specialists who tailor your CV to highlight your most relevant experience for current market demands.
• Personalised Support: Benefit from recruiters who have placed hundreds of candidates in satellite and aerospace organisations, providing insights from application through to salary negotiations.
• Exclusive Opportunities: Many of the best roles are not advertised publicly; we connect you directly through our trusted industry relationships.
• Career Alignment: Our consultants take time to understand your goals and strengths, matching you only with roles that truly fit your expertise and ambitions.

Join Our Network, Explore New Opportunities:

As a trusted partner across Europe and North America for value chain talent, Experts Group International supports key industries including:

• Aerospace & Satellite: specialists advancing innovation, operations, and mission-critical programmes.
• Automotive: leaders in engineering, manufacturing, logistics, and innovation
• Semiconductors: experts in supply chain and manufacturing
• Data Centres: Professionals in product development and supply chain optimisation

We recruit for a wide range of senior roles such as engineers, sales managers, ITSM Developers, software developers, and project managers.

We don’t just fill roles, we build long-term partnerships by placing talent that fuels growth and innovation. Our network is full of qualified professionals aligned with your strategic vision.

If you’re recruiting in the technology space, our consulting team can help you develop a talent strategy perfectly aligned with your operational goals here.

And if you’re exploring new career opportunities in the technology sector, click here to see our current openings.