XMM/INTEGRAL Instrument Operations Engineer

Solenix is a privately owned and international company providing engineering and consulting services in the space market, with branches in Germany, Switzerland, and Italy.

We are known for high-quality services, user-oriented solutions, reliable partnerships and constructive collaboration. Our customers include space agencies such as ESA, EUMETSAT and DLR, as well as large private sector companies.

Solenix is specialized in distributed systems and client applications and applies modern technologies with a focus on high-performing, robust and light solutions.

Why should you apply?

• Solenix is a group of motivated, dynamic and creative people who enjoy high-quality work, as well as a relaxed and flexible work atmosphere.
• You can expect a friendly working environment, exciting and challenging projects and varied team events.
• Solenix focuses on solution-oriented and innovative approaches.

Job Description

We are looking for a Instrument Operations Engineer to support our client ESOC. You will join the Astronomical Missions Operations team and provide additional engineering support for the XMM & INTEGRAL missions.

The general activities supported by this service are:

• Instrument Operations and Maintenance
• Execute real-time payload and instrument operations, including on-call support.
• Perform anomaly investigation and recovery for instruments.
• Maintain and update instrument procedures, databases, observing modes, and on-board software (development, modification, and testing).
• Support instrument health monitoring, trend analysis, and performance assessment.
• Operational Support and Coordination
• Provide operational support for special instrument activities, such as eclipse operations and other mission-critical events. • Develop and implement automation solutions to improve Real-Time Operations efficiency.
• Coordinate with instrument Principal Investigators and engineering teams to address operational issues. - Mission and Calibration Support
• Collaborate with calibration and mission planning teams at ESAC to support operational planning and execution. • Develop and maintain operational documentation under configuration control
• Develop automated solutions as needed, ensuring efficient and accurate database management and deployment, aligned with service delivery assignments
• Maintain and update operational tools used for interacting with and deploying the Database and other mission components, primarily developed in Python, Java, and Bash

Essential qualifications and experience:

• University degree or equivalent education in Computer Science, Electronic Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or Telecommunications Engineering
• Proficiency in Spacecraft Payload and Platform subsystem operations
• Understanding and experience in the area in operating spacecrafts
• Experience in the generation of Flight Procedures and validation
• Familiarity with satellite control systems, in particular SCOS-2000
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a team
• Ability to multi-task and work in a flexible way
• Good Communication skills
• Fluent in the English language

Other desirable qualifications and experience:

• Knowledge of satellite instrument operations
• Familiarity with the ESOC environment
• Some experience dealing with external interfaces, e.g. Project, Industry, PDGS, etc.
• Familiarity with MOIS
• Programming knowledge (Python, Bash)

Work Location

Darmstadt, Germany

The position requires on-site presence at the ESOC office in Darmstadt.

Start Date

01 October 2026