Instrument Operations Engineer

Overview

Instrument Operations Engineer role at Thorn SDS Limited. The Instrument Operations Engineer will join the Flight Control Team (FCT) at ESA’s European Space Operations Centre (ESOC), working on the XMM-Newton and INTEGRAL missions in Darmstadt, Germany. This is a role combining operational excellence, problem-solving, and innovation to support two ESA cornerstone observatories.

What We’re Looking For

• University degree (or equivalent) in Computer Science, Electronic Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Telecommunications Engineering.
• Solid knowledge of spacecraft payload and platform subsystems.
• Hands-on experience in spacecraft operations.
• Excellent communication in English (spoken and written).
• Strong team player, able to coordinate with other service providers.
• Familiarity with satellite control systems (SCOS-2000).
• Experience in generating and validating flight procedures.
• Clearance for handling export control material (US and European).
• Familiarity with ESOC environment and satellite instrument operations.
• Experience dealing with external interfaces (Project, Industry, PDGS).
• Knowledge of MOIS and scripting/programming (Python, Bash).

Responsibilities

• Take over and integrate existing instrument operations activities (currently at ESAC) into the ESOC Flight Control Team.
• Maintain and evolve instrument procedures and the instrument database (development, changes, and testing).
• Execute real-time payload operations and support special operations (e.g. eclipse operations, automation of routine tasks).
• Perform instrument anomaly recovery and contribute to health and performance monitoring.
• Support calibration and mission planning teams at ESAC.
• Provide on-call support and offline monitoring/trend analysis.
• Maintain instruments, observing modes, and onboard software.
• Interface directly with Principal Investigators and other stakeholders on operational issues.
• Play a proactive role in modernising and optimising operations, introducing new tools and processes to improve efficiency.

What We Offer

• The chance to contribute directly to the operation of ESA’s science missions with real impact on ongoing astronomical discoveries.
• A collaborative, international environment at ESA’s ESOC in Darmstadt, working alongside leading experts in spacecraft operations.
• The opportunity to modernise and innovate processes, bringing fresh ideas into established mission operations.
• A role where no two days are the same – from anomaly recoveries to real-time operations and cross-team collaboration.

Benefits

• 20 Statutory Vacation Days, + 10 Additional Vacation Days.
• German Public Holiday Days + Organisation Specific Holidays
• Subsidised Deutsche Bahn Ticket
• Subsidy to Welfare Activities
• Subsidy to Organisation Social Clubs
• Local Thorn Office with Coworking Spaces, Gym, Leisure Activities and Canteen
• Individual Educational Programme Support
• Access to a wide range of Training Material and Programmes
• Flexible and Hybrid Working Options

How To Apply

• Submit your CV in Europass format (PDF).
• All applications must be submitted in English.

All applicants must already hold the Right to Work in Germany as sponsorship cannot be provided for this role.

Base pay range is provided by Thorn SDS Limited. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

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