Designing the Bigger Picture 

As a Systems Engineer working on products in Uppsala, Clara focuses on design and configuration across multiple projects at once. 

“Normally, I’m involved in a handful of different projects at a time,” she explains. “In the same week, I might be ironing out requirements ahead of a Design Review for one project, while writing a test plan for a Test Readiness Review for another.” 

Systems engineering is about seeing the whole picture, ensuring that requirements, interfaces, performance, and testing all align. It’s a discipline that connects technical details to mission-level goals. 

Exploring the Unknown 

One of the most challenging, and rewarding, aspects of Clara’s work is that there isn’t always a predefined roadmap. 

“With new developments, the path must often be explored while walking it,” she says. 

Unexpected customer questions can spark deep investigations, leading her down what she calls “the rabbit hole” of analysis. But that’s exactly where she thrives. 

“Finding the right answers and taking the time to pin important facts down is extremely rewarding. I love the triumphant feeling of gaining a new insight and reaching a deeper understanding.” 

New sales requests and unique mission concepts regularly push the team to rethink how products can be used. That constant challenge is what makes the space industry so compelling. 

“It’s always challenging what we think we can do.” 

A Dream That Became Reality 

Clara’s journey into space engineering was both deeply personal and inspiring. 

“When I started university, I was going through a rough time in my life. It made me realise I wanted to become an engineer above all else.” 

Drawn to problem-solving and cutting-edge technology and inspired by watching Star Wars with her dad as a child, pursuing a master’s degree in Space Engineering felt like both a distant dream and the most natural decision in the world. 

Collaboration Across Borders 

Like many roles at AAC Clyde Space, Clara’s work is highly collaborative and international. 

“When developing our computer systems, we talk to our Missions team in Glasgow for input and interface requirements. It’s amazing that other sites — with their distinct competences — are only a Teams call away.” 

Learning Every Day 

Relatively new to the Systems Engineering role, Clara values the culture of openness and shared learning within her team. 

“I learn new things from my colleagues every day. I really appreciate the willingness to explore and grow together.” 

That collective curiosity and dedication is something she believes defines the space sector. 

“Working in New Space is, in many ways, like any other job, you go to work, solve problems, and go home. It’s not rocket science, but people in space are exceptionally dedicated.” 

Delivering What Customers Need 

For Clara, one of her proudest achievements so far has been helping deliver exactly what customers need — even when that requires new development. 

“Giving customers what they want and making them satisfied, especially when it pushes us into new territory, is incredibly rewarding.” 

Advice for Aspiring Space Engineers 

For those considering a career in space, Clara highlights the importance of understanding project structure. 

“The space sector has very distinct project milestones. Understanding how a project is structured helps you see where and how your competence fits in.” 

And opportunities span far beyond one narrow specialism. 

“We’re looking for expertise across electronics, software, thermal, mechanical engineering — and more.” 

Beyond the Office 

Outside of work, Clara continues to challenge herself — often vertically. 

“Climbing is a big passion of mine. It’s an extension of problem-solving, where margins for success can be small.” 

She also enjoys reading books on society and culture, broadening her perspective beyond engineering and technology. 

Looking Ahead 

Clara is particularly excited about how AAC Clyde Space’s evolving product portfolio will come together in the future. 

“We have many different products, each with its own history and evolution. I’m excited to see how we can bring everything together and give them a strong, collective future.” 

For all our career opportunities visit our Careers page.