Astrophysics Missions Spacecraft Controller

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: Junior

Primary Location: DE - Darmstadt - ESOC

Contract Type: Employee-Permanent

Hybrid Working: Onsite