Serco launches graduate space programme in Saudi Arabia

Serco, having recently launched its Saudi Space Division based out of Riyadh, has opened applications for its Graduate Space Programme, with the aim of recruiting young national engineers.

As a government impact partner, the public services company will use its global space experience through the Saudi Space Division to nurture the talent and skills of local residents in relevant fields.

The graduate space programme marks the first step in transferring operational knowledge and capabilities to young engineers and scientists in Saudi Arabia. It also represents the first-ever space-specific programme of its kind within Saudi Arabia and across Serco worldwide.

With a significant international presence in the space industry, Serco has a workforce of over 2,000 space specialists globally.

Over the past four decades, Serco has supported both civil and military space programmes, including those of organisations such as the European Space Agency, the UK Ministry of Defence and NASA. Now, they are extending their expertise to the region to support local talent and develop their capabilities.

Applications for the programme are open for a two-week period, and a group of graduates is scheduled to be recruited by October. Additionally, the application process will remain open indefinitely beyond the initial closing date, providing other students across Saudi Arabia the chance to explore the opportunities offered by Serco and express interest in future roles as they become available.

Selected graduates will undergo a six-month placement at world-leading space facilities in Europe, where they will receive on-the-job training and gain international exposure through Serco and its partners. This experience will enable them to apply their skills and knowledge in a global context.

Upon returning to Saudi Arabia, the graduates will continue to grow through theoretical lessons, on-the-job training, shadowing, and mentorship, with the ultimate goal of deploying them into Serco’s operational contracts in the regional space sector.

Frank Salzgeber, acting vice governor for Space for the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) said: “Building up human capabilities in the Kingdom for the Space sector is one of our objectives. 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 for Serco Middle East said: “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.”

Mona Althagafi, Saudi country director for Serco Middle East said: “Investing in a two-year space programme for Saudi graduates not only fuels their scientific progress but also empowers them to become pioneers and expand their knowledge and skills to propel the nation to new heights. This signifies Serco’s commitment to innovation and exploration, thus securing Saudi Arabia’s advancement in space exploration.”

Roberto Mulatti, managing director for Space, Serco Europe who are supporting the initiative said: “Serco’s knowledge of the public and private space sector is both global and extensive, with more than 40 years of experience supporting the European Space Agency and a significant presence in 6 European countries. We are proud to now bring that expertise to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and assist Serco’s Saudi Space Division with the training of nationals, to enable the region to strengthen its own capabilities.”

Further details about 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.

Application requirements

To find out more and/or apply for the Saudi Graduate Space Programme visit here

Also read: UAE’s Yahsat, Bayanat partner to develop in-country space programme