Job Introduction

Serco has made significant contributions at ESA's European Space Operations Centre (ESOC) in Darmstadt, supporting a wide range of space missions and projects. Serco provides essential engineering, technical, and management services, playing a key role in logistics and operational support for missions. Their expertise in spacecraft operations, ground systems, and data processing has earned them recognition, including 'Best in Domain' awards from ESA. Their long-standing partnership with ESA reflects their commitment to excellence and innovation in the space sector, ensuring successful mission outcomes and advancing space exploration.

 

On behalf of our customer the European Space Agency, we are looking for a Spacecraft Operations Engineer (Astrophysics). You would be working on-site at ESOC’s site in Darmstadt.

Main Responsibilities

This position plays a key role in mission preparation and execution, covering the full spacecraft operations lifecycle from early definition to routine phase operations. You will join a team supporting critical ESA astrophysics missions and collaborate with engineers across subsystems, ground segment development, and industry teams to ensure safe, reliable and optimised mission operations.

Lead spacecraft operations preparation from Phase B2 to C/D, and execution during E/FInterface with spacecraft and ground segment teams to translate system design into operational plansWrite and maintain system-level FOPs and monitor FOP validation during SVTsCoordinate development and test of command procedures and onboard software (OBSM)Support anomaly analysis and tracking, participate in ARBs/CRBsPlan and execute SVTs, SOVTs, and readiness rehearsalsSupport ground segment validation including simulator, MCS, and planning toolsPerform subsystem performance analysis and cross-check against mission KPIsContribute to mission planning file generation (MTL, PTL, EVFM)Interface with simulator teams, subsystem engineers, and SOCs for test and ops preparation Successful Candidate

Do you think you are the person we are looking for? See below what experience or knowledge you should bring:

 

MSc in Aerospace, Systems Engineering, or related discipline3–6 years of experience in spacecraft operations (ESA mission experience ideal)In-depth knowledge of SCOS-2000, MCS interfaces, and FOP/OBSM managementStrong background in subsystem-level engineering (e.g., AOCS, Power, RF)Familiar with EGSE and simulator-based test campaignsExperience with SVT/SOVT planning and anomaly documentationSkilled in TM/TC database usage and configuration controlKnowledge of ESA documentation and milestone processes (e.g., SRR, ORR)Comfortable working across multiple interfaces with ESA, industry, and SOCsCapable of reporting trends and supporting system-level engineering analysis

All candidates must be eligible to work in the EU.

 

Nice to have:

Spacecraft Operations Engineer with MOIS scripting/automation capabilityExperience on PLATO, ARIEL, or similar astrophysics missionsPropellant tank management experienceOBSM software patching and memory map knowledgeExposure to STR/CDMU validation and toolchain management

 

 

 

On Offer:

Relocation allowance: including a one-way flight ticket, transportation from the airport to a temporary hotel, and one month of paid accommodation while securing permanent housingHybrid working model30% subvention on Deutschland ticketGym membership discountParticipation in pension and health scheme30 days of holiday

 

About the Company

Serco is a leading Space Services Provider with thousands of skilled resources that has supported over 50 space missions on behalf of more than 10 Space or Government agencies around the globe, including the ESA and NASA. Serco offers space capability across the full space lifecycle from satellite testing to launch services, LEOP to spacecraft operations, space surveillance to data management, and supporting downstream application development.

Why should you join Serco ?

At Serco not only is the nature of the work we do important, everyone has an important role to play.

Meaningful and vital work - You’ll contribute to methodologically intercepting challenges whilst achievements will also be recognised and celebrated.

A world of opportunity - You’ll be wholeheartedly supported with development and career progression

Great people - You’ll become an integral member of a well-defined and supportive team who believe passionately in the value of our work. We are a company passionate about diversity and inclusion. 

We are diverse and inclusive organisation

At Serco, we see people first and foremost for their performance and potential and we are committed to supporting the needs of all our colleagues. It’s a mix of people from different backgrounds, experiences and opinion that keeps our culture strong and vibrant.

We believe in equity so we strongly encourage applications from a diverse range of candidates. Disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the job are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their abilities in an interview. We also welcome a conversation about any adjustments that would make the interview process more accessible for you. Wherever possible we are open to discussions around flexible working and we operate a hybrid work structure in many of our business areas.

In the UK we are proud to be a Disability Confident Leader in the government’s scheme and hold the Gold Inclusive Employer Standard; in Belgium we are partner of Diversicom and member of Charter der Vielfalt in Germany.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to The Serco Europe Recruitment Team

Important

Any offer of employment is contingent upon you providing documents to verify your identity and employment eligibility, as required by law.

Please contact the recruitment team if needed

Data Protection:

For more information on how the personal data is processed, please see the link Data Protection policy here. 

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