🚀 Astrodynamics Instrument (Payload) Engineer

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International Recruiter @Starion Group | Matching Exceptional Talent with Opportunities in Space & Cybersecurity Across Europe

Are you looking for a new opportunity to take your career to a higher orbit? To join an international group with a successful track record in Space Engineering? A job adapted to your career ambitions and in which you could have an impact for the years to come?

We’re looking for an Astrodynamics / Payload Engineer to join ESA ESOC in Darmstadt, Germany , supporting two of ESA’s flagship science missions: XMM-Newton (X-ray observatory) and INTEGRAL (gamma‑ray observatory). This is your chance to ensure these world‑class instruments continue delivering cutting‑edge science while growing your career in a high‑profile, dynamic environment.

About the client and location

The European Space Operations Centre (ESOC) is the European Space Agency’s (ESA) base in Darmstadt, Germany. As the main control centre for ESA, ESOC controls the launch and early orbit phases for their missions. They are also accepted globally for their research into ground system engineering, satellite navigation, space debris studies and more.

Tasks and activities

The scope of work will include:

• Maintaining and improving instrument procedures and databases, including development, updates, and testing.
• Supporting instrument operations, including anomaly recovery and special operations such as eclipse activities and automation development to enhance Real‑Time Operations efficiency.
• Collaborating with ESAC calibration and mission planning teams to ensure smooth operational performance.
• Providing on‑call and real‑time payload operations support to guarantee mission continuity.
• Maintaining instruments and observing modes, as well as onboard software, to ensure optimal performance.
• Monitoring instrument health and performance, performing detailed offline trend analysis, and ensuring data quality.
• Liaising with Principal Investigators and mission teams to resolve operational issues and support scientific objectives.

Skills and experience

The following skills and experience are mandatory:

• University degree or equivalent education in Computer Science, Electronic Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or Telecommunications Engineering.
• 4+ years (full‑time) experience in activities applicable to spacecraft operations.
• Spacecraft Payload and Platform subsystem knowledge.
• Coordination with other service providers in operations (team player).
• Familiarity with satellite control systems, particularly SCOS‑2000.
• Experience in the generation of Flight Procedures and validation.
• Desire to work both autonomously and as part of a team, in an international multicultural environment.
• Solution oriented mindset, with a customer focused communication skill.
• Fluent in English, both written and spoken.

The following skills and experience would be highly desirable:

• Familiarity with the ESOC environment and its operational frameworks.
• Hands‑on experience in satellite instrument operations.
• Proven ability to work with external interfaces, including Project teams, Industry partners, and PDGS stakeholders.
• Knowledge of MOIS (Mission Operations Information System) and its practical application in operations.
• Programming skills in Python and Bash for automation, data handling, and operational support.

Why should you apply?

• You will have the opportunity to work within leading space organisations across Europe.
• We encourage everyone to think outside the box and to push the boundaries of traditional knowledge. This role is an opportunity to join a forward‑thinking company and allows for a deeper understanding of the industry.
• To be part of a company that values integrity, inspiration, care and collaboration.
• Benefits include: competitive remuneration packages; unique career opportunities, including working in other countries; access to training and development programmes; flexible relocation support.

We welcome applications from people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, all genders, LGBTQ+ individuals and ex‑service personnel.

Seniority level

• Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

• Full‑time

Job function

• Engineering, Research, and Information Technology

Industries

• Space Research and Technology, Engineering Services, and Business Consulting and Services

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