Spacecraft Operations Payload Engineer

Thorn SDS Ltd•Darmstadt, IN

4h•Hybrid

About The Position

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.

Requirements

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

Nice To Haves

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

Responsibilities

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)