Serco is a leading Space Services Provider with thousands of skilled resources that has supported over 50 space missions on behalf of more than 10 Space or Government agencies around the globe, including the ESA and NASA. Serco offers space capability across the full space lifecycle from satellite testing to Launch services, LEOP to spacecraft operations, space surveillance to data management, and supporting downstream application development. With over 55 years history in the space sector Serco is well placed to contribute to National strategies and New Space ventures who want to scale their businesses/organizations with skilled talent.
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.
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.
Responsibilities:
- Lead spacecraft operations preparation from Phase B2 to C/D, and execution during E/F.
- Interface with spacecraft and ground segment teams to translate system design into operational plans.
- Write and maintain system-level FOPs and monitor FOP validation during SVTs.
- Coordinate development and test of command procedures and onboard software (OBSM).
- Support anomaly analysis and tracking, participate in ARBs/CRBs.
- Plan and execute SVTs, SOVTs, and readiness rehearsals.
- Support ground segment validation including simulator, MCS, and planning tools.
- Perform subsystem performance analysis and cross-check against mission KPIs.
- Contribute to mission planning file generation (MTL, PTL, EVFM).
- Interface with simulator teams, subsystem engineers, and SOCs for test and ops preparation.
Profile:
- MSc in Aerospace, Systems Engineering, or related discipline.
- 3-6 years of experience in spacecraft operations (ESA mission experience ideal).
- In-depth knowledge of SCOS-2000, MCS interfaces, and FOP/OBSM management.
- Strong background in subsystem-level engineering (e.g., AOCS, Power, RF).
- Familiar with EGSE and simulator-based test campaigns.
- Experience with SVT/SOVT planning and anomaly documentation.
- Skilled in TM/TC database usage and configuration control.
- Knowledge of ESA documentation and milestone processes (e.g., SRR, ORR).
- Comfortable working across multiple interfaces with ESA, industry, and SOCs.
- Capable of reporting trends and supporting system-level engineering analysis.
All candidates must be eligible to work in the EU.
Nice to have:
- Spacecraft Operations Engineer with MOIS scripting/automation capability.
- Experience on PLATO, ARIEL, or similar astrophysics missions.
- Propellant tank management experience.
- OBSM software patching and memory map knowledge.
- Exposure to STR/CDMU validation and toolchain management.
On Offer:
- 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.
- Hybrid working model.
- 30% subvention on Deutschland ticket.
- Gym membership discount.
- Participation in pension and health scheme.
- 30 days of holiday.
Relocation:
Darmstadt, Germany, offers a central location in Europe, making it an ideal base for travel and business within the EU. Major cities are well-connected by road, rail, and air, with Frankfurt Airport being one of Europe's busiest and most well-connected airports, facilitating easy international travel.
Serco GMBH offers relocation support for all EU passport holders that are planning to relocate to Germany and work for ESOC.
DE&I:
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Serco GMBH is based on a culture where every voice is heard, and every employee feels valued. Working together as one team, we can enhance the experience of our people and teams, improve the value of our solutions to better serve the missions of our customers, and make an impact in our world.