Junior Spacecraft Operations Engineer

Job Description:

Closer to Space, closer to the Future: join Telespazio – Leonardo Space Division!

Leonardo is a leading global industrial group in Aerospace, Defence and Security, delivering advance multi-domain technologies across Helicopters, Aircraft, Aerostructures, Electronics, Cybersecurity, and Space. As part of the Leonardo Space Division, Telespazio a joint venture between Leonardo (67%) and Thales (33%), is a global reference in the field of satellite solutions and services. With a workforce of over 3.500 professionals across its offices in Europe and around the world, Telespazio operates an international network of Space Centres and Teleports, offering cutting-edge solutions in Geoinformation Services, Satellite Systems and Operations, and Satellite Communications.

Join us as we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in Space.

Inside the Satellite Operations Area at the Fucino Space Centre, we are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Junior Spacecraft Operations Engineer to join our Flight Control Team. In this role, you will be actively involved in supporting in-orbit spacecraft operations and preparing future satellite missions at one of the world's premier commercial spaceports.

RESPONSIBILITIES & ACTIVITIES

The selected candidate will report to the Head of the Satellite Operations Organizational Unit and will be responsible for the following activities:

• Operations Preparation & Execution: Assist in preparing, planning, and executing satellite flight operations across all mission phases, including Launch and Early Orbit Phase (LEOP), Commissioning, and Routine operations.
• Flight Documentation & Database Management: Support the development, testing, validation, and maintenance of Flight Operations Plans (FOP), operational procedures, satellite databases, and critical flight tools.
• Testing & Simulation Campaigns: Contribute to the preparation and execution of System Validation Tests (SVT) with the satellite on the ground, participate in mission simulation campaigns, and support operational readiness activities.
• In-Orbit Operations & Anomaly Resolution: Monitor satellite health and status, assist in long-term trend analyses and performance assessments, and support the investigation of operational events and anomalies across satellite and ground segment elements.
• Control Centre Operations & Training: Support the operational validation of the Mission Control Centre (MCC), assist in providing training to operational personnel, and coordinate satellite activity schedules with system-level operations.
• Technical Reporting & Reviews: Prepare technical notes, generate mission operations reports, and participate in technical meetings and project reviews.

REQUIREMENTS

Academic Background & Experience:

• Master’s Degree in Aerospace, Astronautical, Electronic, or Telecommunications Engineering.
• Desirable: 2–3 years of experience in satellite operations; alternatively, academic project experience, master's thesis work, or internships focused on satellite operations, flight dynamics, or space mission design/analysis will be highly considered.

Technical Skills and IT Tools:

• Solid programming and software development skills, with proficiency in MATLAB and at least one of the following languages: Python, C++, or Java.
• Knowledge of satellite subsystems, space mission phases (LEOP, Commissioning, Routine), and ground segment/Mission Control Centre architectures.
• Familiarity with satellite databases, flight operations procedures, and system validation testing (SVT) concepts.

Soft Skills:

• System-minded approach with strong analytical, synthesis, and problem-solving skills.
• High self-motivation, discipline, and a results-oriented mindset.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a strong capability for teamwork in complex, technical environments.
• Flexibility and adaptability to dynamic operational scenarios.

Language & Mobility Requirements:

• Fluency in written and spoken English.
• Availability for business trips and support to shift work during critical operational phases (e.g., LEOP, Commissioning), if required
  

WHAT WE OFFER

• Our Applicable Collective Labor Agreement is the CCNL for the Private Metalworking Industry and Plant Installation Sector.
• Working Arrangement: Hybrid / On-site.
• Employment Category: Employee.
• Contract Type: Permanent-term.
• 13th-month salary payment.
• Performance bonus linked to business results.
• Welfare Vouchers worth €250 per year.
• Meal Vouchers worth €9,00 per day, usable at the company canteen or for external expenses.
• Continuous learning and development opportunities to enhance both technical expertise and interpersonal skills.

The Company reserves the right to assess the job grade and compensation package based on objective criteria identified during the recruitment process and in line with the seniority level of the selected candidate and the position itself, in compliance with the principles of fairness, transparency, and equal opportunities established by applicable legislation.

How Does the Recruitment Process Work?

Following the collection of applications, we review and identify the candidates whose profiles best match the required qualifications and skills. Selected candidates will participate in an initial interview with the Human Resources team, focused on getting to know the candidate, as well as assessing motivation and personal competencies. This is followed by a more in-depth technical interview conducted together with the relevant Business team. At the end of the selection process, candidates receive feedback regardless of the outcome, whether positive or negative.

For more information, please visit the following link: Join a Global Company

Why Telespazio: At Telespazio, the well-being, safety and development of our people are at the heart of our corporate culture. We actively foster an inclusive, diverse and stimulating work environment, promoting the principles of equity and the value of diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability or age.

Seniority:

Junior

Primary Location:

IT - Fucino

Contract Type:

Permanent

Total Base Pay Range:

33.000-42.000 €

Hybrid Working:

Hybrid