Serco, the renowned international public services company, has taken a significant stride in advancing the space industry in Saudi Arabia and has opened applications for its highly anticipated Graduate Space Programme.
The primary objective of this programme is to attract and recruit young national engineers, in alignment with Vision 2030’s focus on bolstering the nation’s reputation in the global space sector. The Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST), entrusted with nurturing local talent in the emerging space sector, plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of this initiative.
As a government impact partner, Serco leverages it’s over 40 years of space experience on a global scale to develop the skills and expertise of Saudi residents in relevant fields. The launch marks the first phase of the programme, aiming to transfer operational knowledge and capabilities to the next generation of engineers and scientists in the Kingdom.
Serco’s remarkable presence in the international space industry, employing over 2,000 space specialists worldwide, serves as a testament to its unparalleled expertise. For decades, Serco has supported both civil and military space programmes, collaborating with esteemed entities such as the European Space Agency, the UK Ministry of Defence, and NASA. Now, Serco brings its vast knowledge and proficiency to the region, intending to foster local talent and cultivate their capabilities.
Applications are now open for a two-week period with a number of graduates to be recruited by October. Moreover, the application process will remain open indefinitely beyond the initial closing date, allowing students from across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to explore the opportunities offered by Serco and express their interest in future roles as they arise.
Successful candidates admitted to the program will undergo a transformative experience, benefiting from a six-month placement at world-leading space facilities in Europe. This hands-on training will grant them invaluable international exposure through Serco and its partners, affording them the opportunity to apply their skills and knowledge on a global stage.
Upon returning to Saudi Arabia, graduates will continue their growth through theoretical lessons, on-the-job training, shadowing, and mentorship. The ultimate aim is to deploy these talented individuals into Serco’s operational contracts within the regional space sector.
“Building up human capabilities in the Kingdom for the Space sector is one of our objectives,” said Frank Salzgeber, Acting Vice Governor, Space for the Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST). “We’re delighted to see that private industry is supporting this endeavour and we welcome others to follow the example of Serco.”
Amar Vora, Head of Space, Serco Middle East, emphasised the urgency of transferring knowledge and expertise to the next generation, in line with the country’s nationalisation goals. “Our initial graduates will benefit from valuable placements that will equip them with the skills and know-how to support Saudi’s own ambitions. Serco is a proud partner of the Saudi government and the launch of this specialised graduate programme is a demonstration of our commitment to the country, and our best possible contribution in ensuring Saudi has the local talent it needs to become a world leader in space.”
What you need to know about Serco’s Graduate Space Programme:
Serco is currently accepting applications for two positions based on immediate needs – a Graduate Space Data Engineer and a Graduate Space Operations Engineer.
- Graduate Space Data Engineer
This graduate role will play a key role in managing and utilising Earth observation (EO) data for various projects. This role will include an up to six-month placement in Frascati, Italy supporting programmes for the European Space Agency (ESA) Centre for Earth Observation (ESRIN).
- Graduate Spacecraft Operations Engineer
This graduate will play a vital role in the planning, execution, and monitoring of spacecraft operations for various missions. It will include an up to six-month placement in Darmstadt, Germany supporting functions for the European Space Agency (ESA) European Space Operations Centre (ESOC) on an operational contract, gaining hands-on experience in a real-world operational environment.
For aspiring applicants looking to be part of this exciting endeavour, further details and applications for the Saudi Graduate Space Programmeme can be found at https://www.serco.com/me/careers/space-graduate.
