Observational Astronomer

Vyoma GmbH; München; Hybrid; EUR 55.000 - 75.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

A leading space technology company in Munich is seeking an experienced scientist for their Payload Data Ground Segment team. The role includes developing automated image analysis algorithms, supporting telescope commissioning, and contributing to the unique European space surveillance mission. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in optical observations, significant programming experience, and effective communication skills. The position offers a competitive salary and flexible work arrangements.

Leistungen

30 days of holidays

Flexible working hours

Competitive salary

Private pension plan

Transportation allowances

Weekly Happy Hours

Qualifikationen

• Master of Science (preferably PhD) in Natural Sciences, such as Astronomy or Physics.
• Strong background in optical/photometric observations and data analysis.
• Extensive experience in numerical methods and scientific programming.

Aufgaben

• Contribute to data reduction, analysis, and calibration within the Payload Data Ground Segment.
• Support the definition and refinement of operational settings for space telescopes.
• Collaborate with the Space Programme team on future space-based instruments.

Kenntnisse

Optical observations experience

Numerical methods

Scientific programming (Python)

Strong communication skills

Git proficiency

Ausbildung

Master of Science or PhD in a related field

Jobbeschreibung

Your mission

With thousands of satellites in orbit, providing us with critical services such as telecommunications, geolocation and meteorology, ensuring their safety and the long-term sustainability of the space environment is at the core of our mission. Vyoma's vision is to build Europe's first sovereign space surveillance solution that will be capable of mapping all centimetre‑scale space objects orbiting in low‑Earth orbit (LEO).

We are looking for an experienced scientist to join our Payload Data Ground Segment team to contribute to the development of our automated image analysis algorithms, support the commissioning of our space‑based instruments, and eventually lead the derivation of high‑level data products. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to Europe’s first space‑based space surveillance mission and make a lasting impact on our space telescopes.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to the data reduction, analysis, and calibration within the Payload Data Ground Segment (photometry/astrometry pipeline), leveraging your hands‑on experience with optical telescopes.
• Support the definition and refinement of the operational settings of our space telescopes, as well as their observational commissioning.
• Iterate technical aspects of future space‑based instruments in collaboration with Vyoma’s Space Programme team.

Your profile

Education

• Master of Science (preferably PhD) in Natural Sciences, such as (Observational) Astronomy, Physics, or a related field.

Experience

• Strong background in optical/photometric/astronomical observations, including reduction, calibration, analysis, and interpretation of the data, ideally through hands‑on involvement in observation campaigns.
• Extensive experience in numerical methods and scientific programming, with a focus on the large‑scale analysis of real‑world photometric observations.
• Nice to have: experience with optical space surveillance and tracking, instrument commissioning campaigns, and/or time series analysis.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to clearly explain complex concepts to both technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Proficient in Python and Git.

Mindset

• Capable of working independently and proactively, with a sharp analytical mindset and flexible problem‑solving approach.
• Strong team player, able to collaborate efficiently across disciplines while working towards a common goal.

Please apply only if you have a valid work permit for Germany or the EU. Full professional proficiency in English is required.

Why us?

• We nurture your growth. Our employees are key to the success of Vyoma, that is why we want you to grow fast and assume greater responsibility. We also invest in your training while on the job.
• Transparency. At each step of the way, from recruitment to onboarding to having a permanent position, you will know where you stand and have a clear roadmap, with timeline, goals and expectations.
• Accountability and Feedback. Fostering open and direct lines of communication is crucial for the success of individuals and our teams, that is why we encourage people to speak up and maintain flat hierarchies.
• Your time is valuable. Work should not trump private life, that is why we offer 30 days of holidays, the possibility to work from home, and flexible working hours.
• The perks. Effort should be compensated appropriately, that is why we offer a competitive salary, a virtual stock option, a private pension plan, transportation allowances, and other benefits.
• We are all social animals. We don't just work hard, but we know how to have fun together during our weekly Happy Hours and Game Nights.

Vyoma is on a mission to solve one of the big issues humanity faces today: the problem of space debris threatening active satellites in orbit. We are building a fleet of space cameras to monitor such space debris. Together with our software suite, we build an accurate catalogue of space objects, automate satellite operations for our customers, and ultimately keep our orbits clean and safe. We are a young and international team of aerospace engineers and software developers, backed by some of the top investors and venture capitalists in Germany. Our offices are located very centrally in Munich (Bonner Platz). Amongst others, you can expect a great (very international) team atmosphere, highly qualified colleagues, flexible working hours, remote/hybrid work, and a very exciting company vision.