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