STRATOS Flight Controller for Columbus (ISS) (f/m/d)

Start Date: September 2024
Location: Gilching/Oberpfaffenhofen, Germany
Working hours: full time, 40h/week, 24/7 shift
Submission deadline: 7th May 2024

LSE Space GmbH is looking for an Engineer (m/f/d) to join our Service Team supporting the Columbus mission at DLR, Oberpfaffenhofen near Munich/Germany.

The STRATOS position is responsible for monitoring the performance of the Columbus systems (EPDS, TCS, ECLSS) and commanding. The COLUMBUS emergency, Warning, Caution and Saving (EWACs) functions as, e.g. smoke detection, fire suppression and other safety related issues, are monitored by STRATOS. STRATOS performs real-time coordination and supports the resolution of Columbus system-to-payload interface anomalies. Furthermore, STRATOS is responsible for on-line monitoring and control of the Columbus DMS hardware and software. STRATOS also monitors the performance of the Columbus software and controls the execution of the system software programs. STRATOS will additionally perform on-board software management, including the uplink and on-board loading and exchange of software modules and data files. STRATOS routine task is to monitor Columbus DMS. STRATOS additionally performs analysis and diagnostics leading to saving actions based on available procedures when needed. This position is responsible for command execution for all Columbus on-board systems. The STRATOS is responsible for the on-line monitoring and control of the Columbus Video and Data Processing Unit (VDPU), High Rate Multiplexer (HRM), and other communications equipment. STRATOS provides Columbus end-to-end communications oversight and ensures the on-board communications reconfigurations are implemented in accordance with the planned timelines. STRATOS coordinates on-board Columbus packet selection and any changes to the Data Management Plan. STRATOS also coordinates the Columbus VDPU configuration in support of all payloads in Columbus.

The job starts with a 6 month training:

• classroom lessons, on-the-job training and simulations to achieve certification

On console (24/7 rotating 3-shift pattern) 

• Monitor the performance and on-orbit operations of TCS (Thermal Control System), ECLSS (Environmental Control System) and EPDS (Electrical Power Distribution System)
• Exchange important information and providing operations information of the Columbus systems
• Coordinate on resource management, monitoring, and control of the system to payload interface to the International Payload Standard Racks (ISPR)
• Perform EWACS functions like smoke detection, fire suppression and other safety related issues are in the responsibility of the Columbus Systems position
• Monitor and control of the Columbus DMS hardware and software
• Monitor the performance of the Columbus software, and controls the execution of the system software programs
• Manage on-board software, including the uplink and on-board loading and exchange of software modules and data files
• Monitor and control of the Columbus VDPU, HRM, and communications equipment (Video Cassette Recorder (VCR), Video Camera Assembly (VCA), Video Monitor (VMN))
• Provide Columbus end-to-end communications oversight
• Ensure that on-board communications reconfigurations are implemented in accordance with the planned timelines
• Monitor remote site commanding for link or command handling problems
• Prepare of hand over report

Off console:

• Support in preparing all operational products that are needed to execute the above-mentioned tasks e.g. procedures (Operational Data File (ODF), Joint Operational Interface Procedures (JOIP); Flight Control Operations Handbook (FCOH), Operational Interface Procedures (OIP)), Flight Rules, monitoring limits and command files, displays, Mission Flight Data Base (MFDB) and planning inputs
• Participate in the increment preparation process as well as supporting offline interfaces to all operational parties, e.g. Col-FD, EPIC, GCT, EST, NASA-FCT, ESA

• University degree in Aerospace Engineering or similar discipline
• Experience in spacecraft operations is an advantage 
• Willingness to work on console and in a shift pattern
• Fluent in English, both in speech and writing
• Ability to work in a multinational team
• Good communication, planning and reporting skills
• System-minded and a team player
• Able to work in an interdisciplinary team
• Self-starter, able to work independently with little or no supervision
• German language skills would be an asset