NOC Engineer

Closing Date

The closing date for applications is 18 October.

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.

We are seeking a NOC Engineer to join our Network Operations Centre at ESOC in Darmstadt. You will support the coordination, configuration, monitoring and operational control of ESA's ground segment, with a particular focus on the Telemetry, Tracking and Command (TT&C) stations within the ESTRACK ground station network. The role will also involve providing first- and second-line operational support to space missions and their users, responding to real-time service requests and coordinating with relevant operational teams.

This position offers the opportunity to work in an international space operations environment, supporting Ground Operations, Operational IT and Operational Control Centre services. As part of the NOC, you will act as a key point of contact for ESTRACK customers, helping ensure the reliable and timely delivery of operational services across ESA's ground segment.

Key Responsibilities

• Support to service transition & roll-out of new solutions and operational validation;
• Support prototyping and pilot projects;
• Supporting ESA Station Engineers and Ground Operations Engineers in identified projects and the execution of delegated tasks;
• Support of LEOP (launch and early orbit) activities;
• Provide 2nd line ground operations support to the NOC;
• Support mission preparations (launches, mission readiness tests, station tests and tracking campaigns);
• Testing and evaluation of system configurations;
• Coordination and configuration control of SW (applications, OS) in use by the NOC;
• Develop and maintain operational procedures and documentation.

The NOC Engineer will be expected to occasionally work as part of a 24/7 shift in support of launches and special operations.

Required skills & Experience:

• University degree in Engineering, Physics, or a similar relevant discipline.
• Solid professional experience with end-to-end ground station systems supporting spacecraft operations.
• Strong knowledge of ground station subsystems, including antennas, RF front-end equipment, back-end TT&C systems, communications equipment, Monitoring & Control (M&C) systems, and general station support systems.
• Good understanding of space-to-ground communications and RF technologies.
• Solid experience with ground station testing, including test procedures, equipment, tools, and troubleshooting.
• Good understanding of ground systems at subsystem level and their interfaces.
• Familiarity with operational environments and the ability to understand and accurately predict the behaviour of complex systems.
• Good IT knowledge, including Linux, networking concepts, and common IT tools and software applications.
• Good scripting/programming skills, particularly Shell scripting and Python.
• Fluent English, both written and spoken.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work independently and make sound technical judgements.
• Well organised, with the ability to prioritise and manage multiple tasks in parallel.
• Service-oriented mindset and experience working in KPI-driven service environments.
• Strong documentation and reporting skills, including the ability to present technical information clearly.
• Willingness and ability to share knowledge and support the training and development of junior team members.
• Flexibility to work occasional night or shift work when required.

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.
• Corporate Benefits discounts
• 30 days of holiday for balance and exploration.