Copernicus Contributing Missions (CCM) Operations & Systems Engineer

On behalf of the Italian subsidiary of the group – SSC Italy – we are helping to strengthen the Service Team supporting the Copernicus Data Quality and the Copernicus Contributing Mission Activity, at ESA/ESRIN in Frascati (RM), Italy.

We are always seeking passionate individuals with a strong background in space engineering. If you are driven, ambitious, and eager to make a significant impact in the space industry, apply now and embark on an extraordinary space journey with us.

Specific Tasks

The activities consist of 2 Service Packages, and the scope of the work include the following tasks and responsibilities:

Service Package 1 – End-to-End Operations Monitoring

• Monitor and report on the end-to-end performance of Copernicus Contributing Missions (CCM) across Category-2 (established missions) and Category-3 (miscellaneous missions).
• Operate and support the CCM Rapid Response Desk (RRD), ensuring real-time response coordination, request processing, anomaly tracking, and SLA compliance.
• Interface with data providers, platform operators, and ESA teams to ensure timely and traceable data acquisition and delivery.
• Contribute to the generation of KPIs, monthly performance reports, anomaly logs, and user satisfaction metrics for Category-2 and Category-3 activities.
• Participate in daily operations reviews, configuration control, and resolution of technical or operational issues.

Service Package 2 – Maintenance and Evolution

• Support the technical maintenance, integration, and evolution of the CCM operations environment, including RRD and related systems.
• Evaluate and support improvements to Category-1 data ordering and access infrastructures, ensuring interoperability, performance, and security.
• Provide technical input to the evolution of CDSE and WEkEO platforms, supporting integration with new services and partners.
• Collaborate with ESA and industrial contractors to validate interfaces, test new capabilities, and document systems evolution.
• Contribute to system documentation, user manuals, and configuration change records.

Specific Requirements

• Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, Earth Observation Systems, or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum 3 years of relevant experience in EO operations, mission support, or system engineering in a space or data-intensive environment.
• Familiarity with Copernicus Contributing Missions, data access categories (Cat-1, Cat-2, Cat-3), and the CCM operational framework.
• Experience with EO data platforms and dissemination systems, ideally including CDSE and WEkEO.
• Strong understanding of systems integration, performance monitoring, and operational interfaces.
• Hands-on experience with tools such as ticketing systems, dashboards, or mission operations software.
• Proven ability to work under pressure in multi-stakeholder environments, including coordination with external contractors and institutional users.
• Excellent problem-solving, documentation, and reporting skills.
• Proficiency in English (written and spoken) is required; additional ESA Member State languages are a plus.
• Knowledge of IT security practices, especially around data protection and PL1/PL2 constraints, is an advantage.

Legal and Security Requirements

• Applicants must be legally allowed to work in the EU and hold a European citizenship. Evidence of eligibility will be required from candidates as part of the recruitment process.
• Copy of passport and degree(s) certificate.
• Good conduct certificate from the country where currently resident.
• Furthermore, in view of the nature of the work, all potential employees will undergo stringent reference checks.

Location

The work will be performed on-site/near-site at ESRIN, in Frascati (RM), Italy.

Contract

• Competitive remuneration package, recognizing the value of your skills and expertise.
• Unique career opportunities, including the possibility of working in other countries with our SSC Group.
• Personalized training and development programmes.

To be considered for this Position

Prior to 20 August 2025, please apply via our Job Application form quoting SSCItaly-CCM Operations as reference.

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