Ground Segment Software Developer (UK or LUX)
Ground Segment Software Developer (UK or LUX)

Ground Segment Software Developer (UK or LUX)

Full-Time 50000 - 70000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Design and maintain mission-critical software for spacecraft monitoring and commanding.
  • Company: Join ClearSpace, a leader in sustainable space operations and innovation.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on cutting-edge technology and career advancement.
  • Why this job: Be part of a pioneering team making space exploration sustainable and impactful.
  • Qualifications: Proficient in Java and Python with experience in distributed systems.

The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.

At ClearSpace, we believe in reusability, in affordability driving disruption, and that no progress is real unless it is sustainable. Our company was founded in 2018 out of the realization that in‑orbit servicing and space debris removal are vital services for the future of space exploration and operations. Today ClearSpace has assembled an expert engineering team and is leading the way toward sustainable space operations. From a garage in Switzerland, we now operate across the UK and Europe, and are working with world‑leading institutions and companies to bring our dream of a sustainable space ecosystem to life.

We are looking for a Ground Segment Software Developer to join ClearSpace. Our Ground Segment Team provides the digital backbone that enables safe, reliable, and autonomous space operations. As part of this team, you’ll play a pivotal role in designing, building, and operating the infrastructure that supports mission‑critical services — from development all the way through to live operations in space.

The Role

The Ground Segment Software Developer will design, implement, and maintain mission‑critical software used in spacecraft monitoring and commanding. This includes extending and operating the Mission Control System (MCS), implementing mission dataflows, and building automation that enhances operational efficiency. You will work across ClearSpace’s Mission Operations subsystems, contributing directly to the success of on‑orbit activities.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and maintain the Mission Control System (MCS), ensuring reliability, performance, and alignment with mission requirements.
  • Implement new Ground Segment software modules in Java and Python.
  • Support development of Mission Operations subsystems such as:
  • CFDP‑based file management chains
  • Automated ingestion and archiving of image and binary data
  • Workflow automation for telemetry processing and command preparation
  • Work with system engineers to ensure requirements traceability and robust technical design.
  • Debug and optimise critical Ground Segment services for operational readiness.
  • Write documentation, configuration files, and operational guidelines to support long‑term maintenance.
  • Collaborate in technical reviews, design discussions, and mission readiness activities.
  • Must Have

    • Strong proficiency in Java and Python.
    • Good understanding of software engineering principles, testing, and documentation.
    • Experience developing distributed or mission‑critical systems.
    • Familiarity with Linux environments and standard development toolchains.

    Nice to have

    • Experience with SQL databases, schema design, or interfacing data layers with operational systems.
    • Knowledge of Ground Segment TM/TC chains, particularly CCSDS standards including:
    • CFDP (File Delivery Protocol)
    • PUS (Packet Utilisation Standard) services
  • Understanding of telemetry processing, command pipelines, or mission control architectures.
  • Ground Segment Software Developer (UK or LUX) employer: ClearSpace

    At ClearSpace, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of sustainable space operations, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our team is dedicated to professional growth, providing opportunities for employees to develop their skills while contributing to meaningful projects that have a real impact on the future of space exploration. Located in the UK and Luxembourg, we offer a unique chance to be part of a pioneering company that values reusability and affordability in the pursuit of a sustainable space ecosystem.
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    Contact Detail:

    ClearSpace Recruiting Team

    StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

    We think this is how you could land Ground Segment Software Developer (UK or LUX)

    ✨Tip Number 1

    Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the space industry, especially those at ClearSpace. Attend events, webinars, or even local meetups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your projects, especially those involving Java and Python. If you've worked on mission-critical systems or anything related to space operations, make sure it’s front and centre. This will help us see your potential right away!

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge. Be ready to discuss software engineering principles, debugging techniques, and your experience with Linux environments. We want to see how you think and solve problems, so practice articulating your thought process.

    ✨Tip Number 4

    Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining ClearSpace and contributing to our mission of sustainable space operations.

    We think you need these skills to ace Ground Segment Software Developer (UK or LUX)

    Java
    Python
    Software Engineering Principles
    Testing
    Documentation
    Distributed Systems Development
    Mission-Critical Systems
    Linux Environments
    Development Toolchains
    SQL Databases
    Schema Design
    CCSDS Standards
    Telemetry Processing
    Command Pipelines
    Mission Control Architectures

    Some tips for your application 🫡

    Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Ground Segment Software Developer role. Highlight your experience with Java and Python, and any relevant projects that showcase your skills in developing mission-critical systems.

    Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about sustainable space operations and how your background aligns with ClearSpace's mission. Keep it concise but impactful!

    Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to mention your proficiency in Linux environments and any experience with SQL databases. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their technical know-how and problem-solving abilities.

    Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!

    How to prepare for a job interview at ClearSpace

    ✨Know Your Tech Inside Out

    Make sure you brush up on your Java and Python skills before the interview. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've implemented mission-critical software or worked with distributed systems. ClearSpace is looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so showcasing your technical expertise will definitely give you an edge.

    ✨Understand the Mission Control System

    Familiarise yourself with the Mission Control System (MCS) and its components. Be prepared to talk about how you would approach developing and maintaining such a system. Showing that you understand the importance of reliability and performance in mission-critical software will resonate well with the interviewers.

    ✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills

    Think of examples where you've debugged or optimised critical systems in the past. ClearSpace values operational readiness, so sharing your thought process on how you tackle challenges will highlight your problem-solving abilities. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.

    ✨Show Passion for Sustainable Space Operations

    ClearSpace is all about sustainability in space exploration. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for their mission and how your values align with theirs. Discuss any relevant experiences or projects that demonstrate your commitment to sustainability, as this will show you're not just a fit for the role, but also for the company culture.

    Ground Segment Software Developer (UK or LUX)
    ClearSpace

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