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 Spacecraft Controller (Astrophysics). You would be working on-site at ESOC’s site in Darmstadt.
Main Responsibilities
This position forms part of the frontline spacecraft operations team for ESA astrophysics missions. As a Spacecraft Controller, you will ensure safe and efficient execution of telecommands and monitoring of spacecraft systems during live passes, contributing directly to mission success during routine and contingency operations.
1. Monitor spacecraft health and status during real-time operational passes
2. Execute telecommands and verify telemetry in accordance with FOP
3. Respond to alerts and anomalies, escalating to SOEs or engineers as needed
4. Maintain console logs and anomaly reports post-pass
5. Track pass timelines, DSN/ESTRACK interfaces, and automation sequences
6. Ensure safe-mode and recovery operations are properly followed
7. Verify on-board system status across power, thermal, AOCS, and payload
8. Operate within the constraints of uplink schedules and visibility windows
9. Contribute to operations readiness testing and scenario rehearsals
10. Support LEOP, contingency, and eclipse monitoring periods
Successful Candidate
Do you think you are the person we are looking for? See below what experience or knowledge you should bring:
11. BSc in Engineering, Physics, or Technical discipline (MSc desirable)
12. 2+ years in real-time spacecraft operations (console or SPACON role)
13. Familiar with SCOS-2000/EGOS-CC operation environments
14. Understanding of TT&C, spacecraft automation, and operations safety constraints
15. Knowledge of satellite telemetry formats and packet handling
16. Strong situational awareness and calm under operational pressure
17. Experience with anomaly detection and first-level response
18. Able to work in rotating shifts (24/7 support)
19. Comfortable operating procedures in both nominal and emergency cases
20. Good communication and handover logging discipline
All candidates must be eligible to work in the EU.
Nice to have:
21. Support to planetary missions (e.g. MEX, JUICE, INTEGRAL)
22. ESTRACK pass planning familiarity
23. Training certification in ESA real-time control room operations
On Offer:
24. 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
25. Hybrid working model
26. 30% subvention on Deutschland ticket
27. Gym membership discount
28. Participation in pension and health scheme
29. 30 days of holiday