Spacecraft Operations Engineer

Job Posting Organization:
The European Space Agency (ESA) is an intergovernmental organization dedicated to the exploration of space. Established in 1975, ESA has grown to include 22 member states and employs over 2,200 staff members. The agency operates across multiple countries, focusing on various aspects of space exploration, including Earth observation, human spaceflight, and satellite navigation. ESA's mission is to provide Europe with a space capability and to foster international cooperation in space exploration.

Job Overview:
The Spacecraft Operations Engineer will be part of the Earth Observation Missions Division within the Mission Operations Department at ESA. This role involves overseeing the flight operations ground segment and managing satellite mission operations for ESA's Earth Observation satellites. The engineer will be primarily assigned to the Copernicus Sentinels Optical Imaging Missions Operations Unit, where they will work closely with the Head of Unit and Spacecraft Operations Managers. The position requires a proactive approach to mission operations, including the preparation and execution of operations for various missions, anomaly investigations, and performance evaluations. The engineer will also be involved in the development and maintenance of ground segment systems and operational products necessary for mission success, as well as interfacing with various stakeholders, including industry partners and user communities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Spacecraft Operations Engineer include assisting the Spacecraft Operations Manager (SOM) or Head of Unit in defining, preparing, and executing mission operations for assigned units, such as Sentinel-2, LSTM, and CHIME. Responsibilities encompass conducting nominal, special, and contingency operations, investigating and resolving spacecraft and ground segment anomalies, and evaluating performance metrics. The engineer will also support the specification, development, validation, maintenance, and evolution of ground segment systems and operational products. Additionally, the role involves interfacing with other areas within ESA, industry, and external agencies, as well as supporting the Head of Unit in preparing for new missions and participating in reviews and operations of other missions as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in engineering, mathematics, or physics. Additionally, a minimum of five years of direct experience in flight operations is required. Applicants should have demonstrated experience with planning tools for multi-instrument operations, including development and automation. Experience interfacing with external and international partners is essential, along with a strong capacity for teamwork, self-motivation, and the ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams. Knowledge of mission, spacecraft, and payload operations, as well as familiarity with large operations and associated software systems, is also necessary.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in engineering, mathematics, or physics is mandatory for this position. This educational background provides the foundational knowledge required to understand complex spacecraft operations and the technical aspects of mission management.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of relevant professional experience in flight operations. This experience should include direct involvement in mission operations, planning, and coordination with various stakeholders, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the operational environment in space missions.

Languages:
Fluency in English or French is required, as these are the working languages of the Agency. Knowledge of another language from an ESA Member State is considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration within the diverse workforce.

Additional Notes:
The position is permanent and falls within the grade band A2-A

• However, candidates with less than four years of relevant experience may be considered for an A1 level position. Applicants must be eligible to access information and technology subject to European or US export control regulations. The recruitment process may include selection tests, and successful candidates will undergo basic screening before appointment. ESA is committed to diversity and inclusiveness, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates, particularly women and individuals with disabilities. The agency values a diverse workforce and aims to create an inclusive working environment.