Spacecraft Operations Payload Engineer

Thorn SDS is a specialist Managed Service Provider dedicated to helping technology-driven organisations and professionals succeed in some of the world’s most demanding environments—Space, UK Defence, and Security.

We operate at the intersection of cutting-edge technology, mission-critical operations, and trusted partnerships. Our teams support complex programmes where precision, reliability, and expertise truly matter, enabling our customers to focus on delivering innovation with confidence.

Whilst our Head Office is based in the UK, this role sits within our German entity, located in the Darmstadt area, at the heart of Europe’s space operations community. You will be part of an international organisation that values technical excellence, collaboration, and long-term relationships—working on programmes that shape the future of space and security.

With the upcoming launch of MTG-I2, we are expanding our capabilities — and we’re looking for a skilled Spacecraft Operations Payload Engineer to help operate and optimise next-generation geostationary satellites delivering critical data to millions of people worldwide.

This is a hands-on, high-impact role at the intersection of spacecraft operations, payload performance, and mission success.

What you’ll do

You will play a central role in the safe, efficient, and high-performance operation of advanced satellite payloads, including:

• Monitoring and analysing payload performance to ensure optimal data quality

• Investigating anomalies and coordinating resolution with satellite manufacturers and industry partners

• Producing technical reports and operational assessments

• Developing and maintaining operational procedures

• Supporting mission planning and on-board software activities

• Managing configuration control and procedure change processes

• Contributing to simulator activities and readiness testing

• Supporting ground segment operations, including monitor & control systems

• Participating in an on-call rota (~7–8 weeks per year)

What we’re looking for

Essential experience

• Strong background in spacecraft operations, satellite engineering, or payload systems

• Experience in performance monitoring, reporting, and anomaly investigation

• Familiarity with configuration management and controlled operational processes

• Experience working with satellite ground segment systems, ideally including:

  • Procedure development

  • Monitor & Control operations

  • Mission planning

  • On-board software management

  • Performance analysis

  • Simulator environments

 Advantageous knowledge

You don’t need everything below — but any of it will help you stand out:

• Imagery payloads and/or geostationary spacecraft operations

• Broader satellite system expertise (bus or payload)

• MTG or MSG programme experience

• Knowledge of SC2000 platform

• Experience liaising with industrial partners on technical issues

 Why this role is exciting

• Work on one of the most advanced meteorological satellite programmes in the world

• Directly support a major upcoming launch (MTG-I2)

• Collaborate with international experts across science, engineering, and operations

• Contribute to services that protect lives, infrastructure, and the environment

• Operate spacecraft delivering real-time data for weather forecasting and climate monitoring

 Who you are

You are a calm, analytical problem-solver who thrives in mission-critical environments. You enjoy digging into complex technical systems, collaborating across teams, and seeing the real-world impact of your work.

 What we do for you

• 20 Statutory Vacation Days, + 10 Additional Vacation Days.

• German Public Holiday Days + Organisation Specific Holidays

• Subsidised Deutsche Bahn Ticket

• Subsidy to Welfare Activities

• Subsidy to Organisation Social Clubs

• Local Thorn Office with Coworking Spaces, Gym, Leisure Activities and Canteen

• Individual Educational Programme Support

• Access to a wide range of Training Material and Programmes

• Flexible and Hybrid Working Options

If you’re ready to help operate satellites that watch over our planet — and to be part of a mission that truly matters — we’d love to hear from you.

All applicants must already hold the Right to Work in Germany as sponsorship cannot be provided for this role.

The working language for this mission is English, and all applications / CVs must be submitted in English.