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.
1. Lead spacecraft operations preparation from Phase B2 to C/D, and execution during E/F
2. Interface with spacecraft and ground segment teams to translate system design into operational plans
3. Write and maintain system-level FOPs and monitor FOP validation during SVTs
4. Coordinate development and test of command procedures and onboard software (OBSM)
5. Support anomaly analysis and tracking, participate in ARBs/CRBs
6. Plan and execute SVTs, SOVTs, and readiness rehearsals
7. Support ground segment validation including simulator, MCS, and planning tools
8. Perform subsystem performance analysis and cross-check against mission KPIs
9. Contribute to mission planning file generation (MTL, PTL, EVFM)
10. 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:
11. MSc in Aerospace, Systems Engineering, or related discipline
12. 3–6 years of experience in spacecraft operations (ESA mission experience ideal)
13. In-depth knowledge of SCOS-2000, MCS interfaces, and FOP/OBSM management
14. Strong background in subsystem-level engineering (e.g., AOCS, Power, RF)
15. Familiar with EGSE and simulator-based test campaigns
16. Experience with SVT/SOVT planning and anomaly documentation
17. Skilled in TM/TC database usage and configuration control
18. Knowledge of ESA documentation and milestone processes (e.g., SRR, ORR)
19. Comfortable working across multiple interfaces with ESA, industry, and SOCs
20. Capable of reporting trends and supporting system-level engineering analysis
All candidates must be eligible to work in the EU.
Nice to have:
21. Spacecraft Operations Engineer with MOIS scripting/automation capability
22. Experience on PLATO, ARIEL, or similar astrophysics missions
23. Propellant tank management experience
24. OBSM software patching and memory map knowledge
25. Exposure to STR/CDMU validation and toolchain management
On Offer:
26. 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 housing
27. Hybrid working model
28. 30% subvention on Deutschland ticket
29. Gym membership discount
30. Participation in pension and health scheme
31. 30 days of holiday