Satellite Operations Specialist (m/f/d)

Rheinmetall; München; On-site; EUR 65,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Rheinmetall's joint venture with ICEYE seeks a Satellite Operations Specialist to monitor and control a satellite constellation, ensuring safe operations and rapid response to anomalies. You will work across shifts, contribute to procedure improvements, and support fleet maintenance and mock pre-launch operations.

The role emphasizes strong English communication, flexibility for 365/24/7 shifts, and hands-on experience with spacecraft operations and Linux/Python tooling.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or Aeronautical Engineering, Space Science, Software Engineering, Applied Physics or other Engineering degrees.
• Experience with spacecraft and subsystems, ground systems and orbital mechanics.
• Familiarity with software development and programming; strong English skills.

Responsibilities

• Maintain continuous, high-quality monitoring and control of the satellite constellation across shifts.
• Develop and refine procedures, tools, and workflows to improve operations.
• Deliver clear handovers, incident reporting, and documentation for 24/7 operations.

Skills

Strong problem-solving skills

Strong English language skills

Flexibility in scheduled working hours

Education

Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or related engineering fields

Tools

Linux Systems

Python

Jira

Confluence

Atlassian Cloud

Job description

Ref.-Nr.: DE20749Anstellungsart: VollzeitVertragsart: Unbefristeter VertragWHAT WE ARE LOOKING FORAbout UsWe are pioneering the future of satellite intelligence and defense. Backed by Rheinmetall’s proven defense expertise and ICEYE’s radar satellite innovation, our joint venture has the ambition of delivering one of the world's largest earth observation satellite constellations to defend Germany.Our mission? Empower Europe’s security and defense with sovereign, persistent, and accurate space-based intelligence under any condition.Join us to shape one of Europe’s most significant high-tech projects and make a real impact on defense and security for tomorrow.Your Mission as Satellite Operations Specialist:As a Satellite Operations Specialist, you will be an integral part of ensuring that RISS is able to deliver the product and data to customers. You will work closely with other operators on the Mission operations console throughout your shift hours. You will ensure smooth operation of our constellation and provide crucial support for any unexpected contingencies that arise on the fleet or ground systems. You will help to improve Satellite Operations by developing new procedures and tools. You'll handle fleet maintenance and possibly engage in mock operations pre-launch. If you're passionate about space technology and eager to make an impact in satellite operations, we want to hear from you.Expected Outcomes & RequirementsReliable and Safe Satellite Operations: Maintain continuous, high-quality monitoring and control of the satellite constellation during all shifts, ensuring safe operations, early detection of anomalies, and proper escalation or resolution.Improved Operational Efficiency and Readiness: Enhance Satellite Operations by developing and refining procedures, tools, and workflows and support fleet maintenance activities.Consistent Communication and Knowledge Sharing: Deliver clear shift handovers, incident reporting, and documentation, contributing to seamless 24/7 operations and strengthening team-wide situational awareness and best practices.WHAT QUALIFICATIONS YOU SHOULD HAVEBachelor’s degree in aerospace or Aeronautical Engineering, Space Science, Software Engineering, Applied Physics or other Engineering degrees.A basic understanding of spacecraft and their sub-systems, ground systems and orbital mechanics.Familiarity with software development and experience in programming.Have strong problem-solving skills and the ability to react fastStrong English language skills (both written and spoken)Flexibility in scheduled working hours (ability to work morning, evening, and nightshifts, 365/24/7 basis)Experience in Spacecraft Operations would be an advantageFamiliarity with Linux Systems. Phyton, Atlassian Cloud (e.g. Jira, Confluence) would be an advantageRISS Key CompetencesIn addition to role-specific competencies, every candidate is assessed on the following RISS qualities:Intellectual Firepower & Growth Mindset – Quickly understands complex systems, synthesises information, learns fast, and adapts.Passion & Work Ethic – Sustained drive, resilience, and high personal standards under pressure.Ownership & Action – Acts decisively, takes full accountability, and unblocks progress without waiting for permission.