Mission Control Systems Engineer - Talent Pool

Leonardo UK Ltd; Darmstadt; Hybrid; EUR 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Leonardo UK Ltd. is seeking a Ground Segment Systems Engineer to lead cross‑discipline tasks for Mission Control systems, from design through IVV and operations preparation.

You will collaborate directly with EUMETSAT in a client‑facing role and contribute to automation efforts that improve reliability and efficiency in daily mission operations. A hybrid work model is offered with on-site and Darmstadt-based activities.

Qualifications

• University degree (or PhD) in Computer Engineering, Data Science or a related discipline.
• Several years of experience in Spacecraft Ground Control Systems, including specification, architecture and IVV.
• Experience with ESA Mission Control System environments (e.g. MICONYS-based systems) and mission automation systems such as MATIS.

Responsibilities

• Take technical ownership within Ground Segment Systems Engineering and coordinate across disciplines.
• Engineer and integrate Mission Control Systems throughout design, IVV and operations preparation.
• Contribute to automation engineering, supporting efficient and reliable mission operations.
• Plan, execute and support integration, verification and validation activities.
• Support flight control teams and operational users during preparation and critical phases.

Skills

Communication skills

English proficiency

Client-facing collaboration

Systems engineering

Education

University degree or PhD in Computer Engineering or Data Science

Tools

MATIS

MICONYS

SysML

UML

Job description

Job Description:

As part of our Ground Segment engineering team, you will work closely with EUMETSAT and industrial partners on the design, integration and validation of the EPS-Sterna Ground Control Segment.

The Mission Operations System comprises:

• Monitoring & Control
• Mission Planning
• Flight Dynamics
• Satellite Simulation
• Configuration Control
• Operations Preparation

As the mission matures, your responsibilities will evolve accordingly, offering continuous technical depth and long-term learning opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Take technical ownership within Ground Segment Systems Engineering and coordinate across disciplines
• Engineer and integrate Mission Control Systems throughout design, IVV and operations preparation
• Contribute to automation engineering, supporting efficient and reliable mission operations
• Plan, execute and support integration, verification and validation activities
• Support flight control teams and operational users during preparation and critical phases

Why This Role Is Special

• End-to-end involvement: from early integration to launch and operations
• Direct collaboration with EUMETSAT in a client-facing role
• Long-term mission with high operational relevance
• Clear career paths into Ground Segment engineering or Mission Operations, depending on your interests

Working Model

• Hybrid role: approximately 50% on-site at EUMETSAT, with increased presence during critical activities
• Remaining time at our Darmstadt offices or via remote working arrangements

Qualifications & Experience

• University degree (or PhD) in Computer Engineering, Data Science or a related discipline

Essential Experience

• Several years of experience in Spacecraft Ground Control Systems, including specification, architecture and IVV
• Strong experience with ESA Mission Control System environments (e.g. MICONYS-based systems)
• Experience in mission automation systems (e.g. MATIS or comparable solutions)
• Experience with Ground Facilities or Ground Functional Test Systems
• Solid background in integration and verification testing
• Excellent communication skills in a multidisciplinary, client-facing environment
• Proficiency in English (written and spoken)

Desirable Experience

• Knowledge of DABYS
• System and software modelling using SysML / UML
• Familiarity with Flight Dynamics systems and operational procedures
• Experience providing software support to operational users

Primary Location:

DE - Darmstadt