Software Engineer - European Space Agency (Darmstadt)

About this position

The summary below is published by European Space Agency on the official vacancy notice. Our own analysis — salary realism, comparable openings, career trajectory, language profile — follows further down the page.

Position details

Reference

1420873933

Last Verified

6 August 2026

Position overview

This is the official EU Careers listing for Software Engineer at ESA based in Darmstadt (Other). The vacancy reference is 1420873933.

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# Software Engineer

Job Requisition ID:20784

Date Posted:30 July 2026

Closing Date:20 August 2026 23:59 CET/CEST

Publication:Internal & External

[Type of Appointment](https://www.esa.int/About_Us/Careers_at_ESA/Frequently_asked_questions2#post):4 years, extendable to indefinite

Directorate:Operations

Workplace: Darmstadt, DE

[Grade Band](https://esamultimedia.esa.int/docs/careers/Table_Staff_Salaries.pdf):A2 - A4

Location

ESOC, Darmstadt, Germany

## Description

Software Engineer in the Software Backend Section, Ground Station Engineering Division, Ground Systems Engineering and Innovation Department, Directorate of Operations.

## Duties

You will report to the Head of the Software Backend Section and will be responsible for the development and engineering activities relating to space link communication software and ground station monitoring and control software, as well as ground station-related planning and scheduling software. The role involves the following main tasks:

* Requirement specification for the necessary functions to be supported by the systems, in collaboration with the operational users and the ground station and control centre engineering community; * Concept definition and design of the systems, based on modern software engineering methodologies and techniques for procurement activities; * Leading agile software development and software maintenance processes; * Acceptance of the deliverables received from industry, ensuring correctness, completeness and compliance with the applicable user needs and requirements; * Leading deployment and operational phase-in; * Definition and execution of study and technology developments to validate new concepts and/or to explore the spin-in of new information technology; * Contributing to standards in the area of space data systems and software engineering; * Managing industrial contracts for the above.

## Technical competencies

Proven experience in the development of complex software systems, preferably in the ground segment for space missions

Excellent command of Java or C++

Knowledge of continuous integration and continuous delivery techniques and associated tools and processes

## Behavioural competencies

Result Orientation

Operational Efficiency

Fostering Cooperation

Relationship Management

Continuous Improvement

Forward Thinking

For more information, please refer to [ESA Core Behavioural Competencies guidebook](https://esamultimedia.esa.int/docs/careers/ESA_Competency_Framework.pdf)

## Education and professional experience

A master's degree in computer science, electrical engineering, physics, mathematics or another relevant domain is required for this post, together with at least five years of relevant professional experience.

## Additional requirements

You are expected to have several years’ experience in software development, preferably in the field of ground segment for space missions. Experience in project management and/or management of agile projects would be an asset. Good knowledge of CCSDS and ECSS standards relevant to ground stations is a plus. You must have a high level of motivation and the ability to define solutions and solve problems in an autonomous manner, while also communicating effectively within the project and the organisation.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusiveness

ESA is an equal opportunity employer, committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment. We therefore welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics.

At the Agency we value diversity, and we welcome people with disabilities. Whenever possible, we seek to accommodate individuals with disabilities by providing the necessary support at the workplace. The Human Resources Department can also provide assistance during the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss this further, please contact us via email at [email protected].

Important Information and Disclaimer

In principle, recruitment will be within the advertised grade band (A2-A4). However, if the selected candidate has less than four years of relevant professional experience following the completion of the master’s degree, the position may be filled at A1 level.

During the recruitment process, the Agency may request applicants to undergo selection tests. Additionally, successful candidates will need to undergo basic screening before appointment, which will be conducted by an external background screening service, in compliance with the European Space Agency's security procedures.

Note that ESA is in the process of transitioning to a Matrix setup, which could lead to organisational changes affecting this position.

The information published on ESA’s careers website regarding working conditions is correct at the time of publication. It is not intended to be exhaustive and may not address all questions you would have.

Nationality and Languages

Please note that applications are only considered from nationals of one of the following States: Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and Canada, Cyprus, Latvia, Lithuania and Slovakia.

According to the ESA Convention, staff shall be recruited on the basis of their qualifications, taking into account an adequate distribution of posts among nationals of the Member States.

The working languages of the Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these is required. Knowledge of another Member State language would be an asset.

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Application timeline

This vacancy was first listed on 30 July 2026, 6 days ago.

The application deadline is 20 August 2026, 13 days from today. Late applications are not accepted, so submit through the official EU Careers portal well in advance.

Last verified against the EU Careers feed on 6 August 2026.

Where to learn more

For headcount, mission, and other open vacancies at ESA see the ESA institution page; for the cost of living, correction coefficient, and other postings in Darmstadt see our Darmstadt location page.

New to EU careers? Our beginner's guide walks through entry routes, EPSO competitions, and what to prepare. For application logistics see application tips and EPSO competitions.