Astrophysics Missions Spacecraft Controller

Job description

Job Description: As part of the new ESOC FOE Astrophysics missions’ contract, due to start on 01/01/2027, we are seeking to expand our Spacecraft Controller Service Team. Key Responsibilities The general activities to be supported by this service are: • Execution of end-to-end routine and contingency operations for the spacecraft, including: • Preparation, monitoring and remote control of the spacecraft. • Monitoring of telemetry data, health checks of spacecraft equipment, preparation and execution of operations in accordance with established procedures, and verification of results. • Monitoring ground station passes and ensuring successful command uplink and telemetry downlink. • Responding to alarms and out-of-limit conditions and performing predefined recovery actions when required. • Troubleshooting using established procedures and preparation of anomaly and operational reports. • Supporting 24/7 routine operations, including night, weekend and holiday shifts, for missions requiring continuous coverage. • Maintaining mission logs and performing shift handovers to ensure continuity of operations. • Coordinating with Analysts, SOEs, SOMs and on-call engineers during anomaly investigations, recovery activities and special operations. Additional tasks as defined by the supervisor. Essential Skills and Qualifications • A university degree in a Science or IT-related discipline (electronics, physics, computing, programming, process control, ground station operations) is preferred. • A strong technical-oriented background. • Good communication skills, fluency in English, both in speaking and writing • Ability to work autonomously according to high level guidelines and to work in international teams • A good working knowledge of MS Office Tools • Collaborative and team worker • Solution orientated • Knowledge of ground segment elements (mission control systems, simulators, satellite database, mission planning, flight dynamics, etc.) • A working knowledge of Linux Desirable Skills • Some experience of shift work would be an advantage • Previous spacecraft controller experience Furthermore • Shiftwork • Start date 01/10/2026 or 01/01/2027 • EU applications only. • CV in latest Europass format Seniority: JuniorPrimary Location: DE - Darmstadt - ESOCContract Type: Employee-Permanent Hybrid Working: Onsite