VisionSpace is a dynamic and experienced consulting, technology and engineering service business that develops and integrates enterprise-level solutions for Space and Defense. Our team consists of highly skilled professionals focused on delivering smart and reliable solutions in the fields of Aerospace, Cyber Security, Automated Systems and Machine Learning.
Our Motto: Space and Beyond is Our Playground - We empower our customers to shape the future of satellite operations by integrating automation and intelligence into autonomous systems.
About the Position
We are looking for an Operations Engineer to join the Secure Connectivity – IRIS² program at the European Space Agency (ESA). This program supports the development and validation of the EU's secure connectivity infrastructure, with a strong focus on automation.
The selected candidate will be responsible for supporting the development and validation of the Operational Concept for the Ground Control Segment of the satellite constellation, ensuring alignment with mission and system requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Collaborate with industry partners on the full technical lifecycle of the Satellite Constellation Control Center (S3C), including functional, performance, operational, service, and security requirements.
- Develop and maintain the Operational Concept (CONOPS) for the Ground Control Segment, ensuring alignment with the overall ground segment architecture.
- Oversee the integration, verification, and qualification of the Ground Control Segment, including TT&C distribution to remote sites.
- Ensure that all main building blocks (simulator, mission planning system, flight dynamics system, M&C platforms) meet operational and system requirements.
- Monitor project schedules, identify risks, and provide mitigation strategies in collaboration with the ESA System Office.
- Support security engineering efforts in coordination with the Secure Connectivity Security Office.
Required Qualifications & Experience
✅ Essential:
- The candidate must work on-site at ESTEC (no remote work option).
- Must live in the Netherlands or be willing to relocate.
- Availability for frequent travel (approximately 12 European missions per year).
- Proven experience in defining and implementing Operational Concepts for large-scale systems.
- Expertise in procurement, integration, and operations of Ground Segments.
- Strong background in system engineering, preferably in SATCOM domains.
- Ability to manage complex requirements, including breakdown, tracing, and adaptation.
- Experience in monitoring industrial activities, conducting negotiations, and managing technical reviews.
- Eligibility for EU personal security clearance as per Secure Connectivity PSI requirements.
➕ Desirable:
- Knowledge of Spanish is an advantage.
- Experience in risk management and schedule optimization.
- Familiarity with space and ground segment subsystems.
- Knowledge of training methodologies for operational environments.
If you are passionate about space operations and looking for an opportunity to contribute to a high-impact European program, apply today! 🚀
