SMP Simulation Expert

Job Description:

Telespazio Germany is seeking a passionate Software Engineer to develop advanced satellite simulation software in an international, informal environment directly supporting ESA’s European Space Operations Centre (ESOC) in Darmstadt.

You will bridge the gap between computer science and aerospace by designing reliable C++ models for satellite subsystems and maintaining the high-performance software environments used by ESA, EUMETSAT, and Galileo.

This role combines hands-on technical development with the opportunity to mentor junior engineers and take on leadership responsibilities for critical mission simulators. We value curiosity and the ability to translate complex hardware documentation into sophisticated software solutions that meet the evolving demands of the space domain.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate the design, development, and maintenance of efficient C++ code for satellite subsystem models.
• Translate technical spacecraft documentation into functional software models for Linux-based environments.
• Lead the software life cycle from initial design through to validation and maintenance for customers like ESA and EUMETSAT.
• Oversee the work of junior engineers and manage task distribution across the development team.
• Participate in project milestones, including technical reviews and the tracking of Review Items for Discrepancies (RIDs).
• Ensure simulators meet evolving performance demands for high-fidelity mission training and validation.
• Liaise with ESA technical leads to align software delivery with mission operational concepts.

Essential Skills and Qualifications

• Extensive experience in spacecraft model development using the ECSS SMP (or SMP2) standard.
• Advanced proficiency in C++ programming and Object-Oriented Design (UML/UMF).
• Proven ability to understand and summarize complex spacecraft technical documentation.
• Strong background in requirements management and tracing throughout the software life cycle.
• Experience mentoring junior staff and leading small technical teams.
• Logical and pragmatic problem-solving skills.
• Professional proficiency in spoken and written English.

Desirable Skills

• Familiarity with the ESA/ESOC SIMULUS suite and the SIMSAT runtime kernel.
• Experience with modern CI/CD tools such as Maven, GitLab, Nexus, and SonarQube.
• Knowledge of Space Engineering Standards (ECSS-E-ST-40) and the Packet Utilisation Standard (ECSS-E-70).
• Background in the GNSS/Navigation field or satellite AIV (Assembly, Integration, and Verification).
• Understanding of spacecraft databases, such as SCOS MIB or EGS-CC CDM.

Furthermore

• A citizenship of an EU or ESA member state is mandatory.

Primary Location: DE - Darmstadt - Europahaus

Contract Type: Employee-Permanent