Flight Operations Engineer

Job Introduction

Serco has made significant contributions at European Space Operations Centre (ESOC) in Darmstadt, supporting a wide range of space missions and projects. Serco provides essential engineering, technical, and management services, playing a key role in logistics and operational support for missions. Its expertise in spacecraft operations, ground systems, and data processing has earned it recognition, including 'Best in Domain' awards from European Space Agency. Its long-standing partnership with ESA reflects its commitment to excellence and innovation in the space sector, ensuring successful mission outcomes and advancing space exploration.

On behalf of our client, ESOC, we are looking for a skilled Flight Operations Engineer to join our team, distributed across the ESOC site in Germany.

The closing date for applications is 3 June.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you will:

• Operate all parts of the mission control system, including ground and space segment elements, in line with mission‑specific requirements
• Perform nominal spacecraft operations and support anomaly detection and recovery activities across different satellite families
• Support pre‑launch activities, including the configuration, testing, and validation of operational systems
• Take part in Mission Readiness Tests, System Validation Tests, simulations, and Launch and Early Orbit Phase (LEOP) operations, following defined rules and procedures
• Respond to ground or space segment anomalies, applying approved contingency and emergency procedures to ensure spacecraft safety and service continuity
• Escalate major or critical anomalies in accordance with established escalation processes
• Contribute to wider operations‑related activities, such as procedure development, maintenance, or small system development tasks, as requested by the Team Leader

Skills

We’re looking for people with a structured mindset who are comfortable operating in a procedure‑driven, mission‑critical environment.

You will bring:

• A solid technical background or a BSc degree in a relevant discipline such as IT, Telecommunications, Physics, Aerospace Engineering, or similar
• Experience working with computer systems and strong PC literacy
• Familiarity with Python scripting (desirable but not essential)
• A disciplined, organised approach with strong problem‑solving skills
• The ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure, often with a high degree of autonomy
• A genuine team ethos and willingness to support shift‑based operational working
• Fluency in English (mandatory)

Package Description

• Relocation allowance (flight to Germany, airport transport, one month paid accommodation).
• Hybrid working model for flexibility.
• 30% discount on the Deutschland ticket for easy travel.
• Subsidised Wellpass – access to 12,500+ fitness and wellness options across Germany. 
• Pension and health schemes.
• 30 days of holiday for balance and exploration.