Senior C++ Simulation Software Engineer - Space

We are looking for a passionate, organized, and proactive Senior Software Engineer to join our Space Simulations team in Darmstadt, Germany.

In this role, you will contribute to the development of software supporting space missions for leading organizations and institutions such as ESA, EUMETSAT, AIRBUS, and DLR, as well as companies involved in current and future missions related to Space Exploration, Space Science, Astronomy, Earth Observation, and Telecommunications.

You will work on the design, development, testing, and maintenance of mission‑critical software systems while applying professional software engineering best practices throughout the complete development lifecycle. Depending on project needs, both conventional and Agile methodologies are used, supported by full configuration management and modern quality assurance processes.

Responsibilities

As a Senior Software Engineer, your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

Software Development & Technical Leadership

• Oversee the development of space industry ground systems applications across all software lifecycle phases, including:
• System analysis
• Software design and implementation
• Unit, integration, and system testing
• Maintenance and operational support
• Production of technical documentation according to professional software engineering standards and methodologies
• Deliver software and documentation according to agreed schedules, budgets, and quality standards
• Take ownership of complex implementation tasks and technical solutions
• Lead simulator performance improvement activities (e.g., callgrind analysis)
• Maintain and update project documentation and JIRA tracking
• Produce and maintain software documentation
• Support and mentor junior software engineers

Project & Customer Coordination

• Interface directly with customers and participate in Technical Progress Meetings (TPMs)
• Coordinate with the SIM Group Manager regarding project status and resource planning
• Participate in internal and external project audits
• Support project planning, task allocation, and resource follow‑up
• Contribute to project management documentation and reporting

Additional Activities

Depending on project needs, additional responsibilities may include:

• Performing studies, analyses, and investigations related to software systems and technologies
• Evaluating software technology trends and methodologies for future applications and prototyping activities
• Supporting technical proposal preparation
• Supporting customers in ground software systems development and operations, including potential assignments at customer sites

This is a full‑time position based in Darmstadt, Germany, with an immediate start date.

Qualifications & Competencies

Applicants should hold a university degree in:

• Computer Science
• Software Engineering
• Electronic Engineering
• Mathematics or Physics

Equivalent qualifications may also be considered if supported by strong software engineering experience.

• Minimum 5 years of experience modelling satellite systems and subsystems
• Hands‑on experience with SIMULUS and other simulation frameworks
• Experience with simulation standards such as SMP2 or ECSS‑SMP
• Strong programming skills in C++ and object‑oriented software development
• Experience working in GNU/Linux environments
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Proactive, self‑driven, and solution‑oriented mindset
• Ability to mentor and support junior engineers
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken

Additional Experience Expected

• Proven track record in managing or supporting software projects within the Space industry
• Knowledge of software development processes and lifecycles
• Experience with model‑based software engineering using UML

Experience with the following would be considered an advantage:

• Agile SCRUM and/or Waterfall software development methodologies
• CORBA and XML technologies
• POSIX programming
• CI/CD pipelines and DevOps practices
• Industry or agency software development infrastructures
• Customer‑facing technical roles

Additional Advantages

The following experience would be highly valued:

• Knowledge of and/or experience working with ESA, EUMETSAT, ESO, or other European space agencies
• Experience working with European space industry partners
• Knowledge of ECSS standards
• Familiarity with Quality Assurance (QA) and Product Assurance (PA) activities

The position requires a high degree of independence, self‑motivation, and initiative. Candidates should be comfortable working autonomously while also contributing effectively within an international team environment.