Vacancies

Spacecraft Operations Engineer (Earth Explorers)

Job Introduction

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 (Earth Explorers). You would be working on-site at ESOC’s site in Darmstadt.

Main Responsibilities

This position will support the operational preparation and execution phases of Earth Explorer and Earth Watch missions. You will contribute to platform and payload procedure development, simulator configuration, anomaly investigations, and coordination of validation campaigns in collaboration with FCT and Ground Segment teams.

Develop and maintain operational procedures (FOPs) for the spacecraft platform and payload systems
Execute validation campaigns including SVTs, SOVTs, and system-level test readiness reviews
Lead configuration of the operational simulator, MCS, and planning tool interfaces (EGOS-CC)
Maintain the telemetry and command database (ODB/MIB) and support updates as per mission phases
Manage operational input to anomaly investigations, CRBs/ARBs, and implement recovery strategies
Coordinate with Ground Segment and SOC teams for tool validation, configuration alignment, and interface testing
Support OBSM patch definition, memory load testing, and validation with real hardware/simulator chains
Contribute to FOS maintenance, tool regression testing, and version control across uplink chains
Validate and test GS upgrades, including MCS plug-in changes and post-patch system integrity
Interface with subsystem leads (thermal, power, AOCS, DH, RF) to ensure system behaviour aligns with mission requirements

Successful Candidate

Do you think you are the person we are looking for? See below what experience or knowledge you should bring:

MSc in Aerospace, Systems, or Electrical Engineering
3+ years in spacecraft operations preparation or routine mission ops (ESA environment preferred)
In-depth knowledge of SCOS-2000 and EGOS-CC, including simulator and MCS configuration
Strong technical understanding of spacecraft platforms, instrument operations, and EGSE setups
Hands-on experience with OBSM, OBCP patching, and command sequence validation
Familiarity with ground system test planning, execution, and report documentation
Experience in anomaly root-cause analysis and command execution monitoring
Competent in telemetry trend analysis, health tracking, and reporting tools (WebMUST, Python preferred)
Proven skills in writing and maintaining mission operations documentation (ORR/CRR readiness)
Able to work closely with cross-functional teams (FCT, GS, SOC) and manage technical interfaces

All candidates must be eligible to work in the EU.

Nice to have:

Previous ops prep work on FLEX, EarthCARE, or BIOMASS
Experience coordinating with external GS partners (e.g., EUMETSAT)
Knowledge of CCSDS/PUS TM/TC services for payload commanding

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

About the Company

Why should you join Serco ?

At Serco not only is the nature of the work we do important, everyone has an important role to play.

Meaningful and vital work - You’ll contribute to methodologically intercepting challenges whilst achievements will also be recognised and celebrated.

A world of opportunity - You’ll be wholeheartedly supported with development and career progression

Great people - You’ll become an integral member of a well-defined and supportive team who believe passionately in the value of our work. We are a company passionate about diversity and inclusion.

We are diverse and inclusive organisation

At Serco, we see people first and foremost for their performance and potential and we are committed to supporting the needs of all our colleagues. It’s a mix of people from different backgrounds, experiences and opinion that keeps our culture strong and vibrant.

We believe in equity so we strongly encourage applications from a diverse range of candidates. Disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the job are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their abilities in an interview. We also welcome a conversation about any adjustments that would make the interview process more accessible for you. Wherever possible we are open to discussions around flexible working and we operate a hybrid work structure in many of our business areas.

In the UK we are proud to be a Disability Confident Leader in the government’s scheme and hold the Gold Inclusive Employer Standard; in Belgium we are partner of Diversicom and member of Charter der Vielfalt in Germany.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to The Serco Europe Recruitment Team

Important

Any offer of employment is contingent upon you providing documents to verify your identity and employment eligibility, as required by law.

Please contact the recruitment team if needed

Data Protection:

For more information on how the personal data is processed, please see the link Data Protection policy here.

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