Spacecraft Operations Engineer (Metop)

Job Description: We are looking for a Spacecraft Operations Engineer (SOE) with strong engineering skills and proven experience in satellite operations to support our customer EUMETSAT, based in Darmstadt. As a full member of our dedicated Metop Operations team, you will deliver state-of-the-art spacecraft operations for the Metop series of satellites within the EUMETSAT Polar System (EPS), supporting the transition towards the next generation EPS-SG / Metop-SG programme.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and execute routine and non-routine spacecraft operations, including recovery operations following anomalies
• Investigate spacecraft anomalies, perform trend analysis, and monitor subsystem and instrument performance
• Develop, validate, and maintain flight procedures and operations documentation
• Contribute to the preparation, commissioning, and operational readiness of upcoming missions and activities
• Design and validate innovative operational tools to enhance mission efficiency
• Identify and support the implementation of system and process improvements within the team
• Participate in simulation campaigns, training exercises, and rotational on-call support

Qualifications/Experience

• You hold a Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or related area.
• You have several years of experience working in spacecraft operations and operations preparation, including ground segment and spacecraft operations validation (e.g. SVTs) and simulations and training.
• You have proven experience with spacecraft mission control systems for Earth observation missions, especially SCOS-2000.
• Essential Skills: System-level knowledge of ground and spacecraft (sub)systems; Teamwork is key: Your positive and professional attitude. You have a drive to succeed and a desire to grow professionally. Proficiency in Python/VB, etc. Excellent communication skills. Negotiation-level proficiency in English.

Seniority: Expert

Primary Location: DE - Darmstadt - EUMETSAT

Contract Type: Employee-Permanent

Hybrid Working: Onsite

International, multicultural, innovative, technological: this is Leonardo. The company’s passionate and talented team is strongly influenced by STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) expertise, with a diverse range of experience that enables colleagues to share knowledge and know-how across the generations.

Leonardo always wants to expand its talent pool, here you can find the right opportunity for you!