Space Software & AI Project Manager in Darmstadt

Are you looking to join an international group with a successful track record in Space Engineering?

Starion is currently recruiting a Project Manager for Software and AI Application Development to support our Ground Segment Software Development Team supporting the European Space Agency (ESA) in Germany. In this role, you will work in a multidisciplinary environment at the intersection of software engineering, AI and space systems, leading and supporting the development of advanced ground segment solutions for data analysis and planning optimisation.

This role is particularly suited to an experienced software and AI professional with project leadership experience who is ready to take the next step in their career and apply their technical expertise to challenging, mission-critical projects for ESA.

Tasks and activities

• Lead and contribute to the development of software solutions for ground segment and space applications, including AI-enabled applications.
• Drive system design and technical solution development, contributing to architecture and key technical decisions.
• Work closely with software engineers and Technical Leads to coordinate development activities, solve technical challenges and ensure high-quality project outcomes.
• Translate project and customer requirements into practical technical solutions, balancing functionality, quality, performance and project constraints.
• Take ownership of project work packages and technical activities, from definition and planning through implementation and delivery.
• Provide technical leadership to multidisciplinary development teams, supporting effective collaboration and informed decision-making.
• Contribute to the integration of AI, cloud technologies and modern software engineering practices into ground segment solutions.
• Engage directly with customers and technical stakeholders, presenting solutions, discussing requirements and supporting technical reviews.
• Support project planning, risk management and progress reporting, ensuring technical activities remain aligned with project objectives, schedule and quality expectations.
• Contribute to project estimates, resource planning and proposals, drawing on your technical expertise to support future project opportunities.
• Support Project Managers where required, with the opportunity to progressively take on greater responsibility for project delivery.

Skills and experience

• University degree in Software Engineering or a related discipline.
• 5+ years experience in software engineering, ideally including the development of AI-driven applications.
• Strong understanding of modern AI technology stacks and related development frameworks.
• Demonstrated experience as Project Lead on development activities within a team.
• Understanding of current state-of-the-art of Information Technology, including public and private cloud deployments
• Fluent in English, both written and spoken.

The following skills would be desirable:

• Experience in the space sector, particularly Ground Segment systems or/and familiarity with ECSS standards, is a strong plus.
• Experience with software modelling languages and tools, including UML.
• Knowledge of DevSecOps practices and approaches.
• Understanding of object-oriented and service-oriented design principles.
• Experience working with Agile methodologies and practices.
• Experience with Java development.
• Knowledge of cloud-based architectures and technologies.

Why should you apply?

• You will have the opportunity to work within leading space organisations across Europe.
• We encourage everyone to think outside the box and to push the boundaries of traditional knowledge. This role is an opportunity to join a forward-thinking company and allows for a deeper understanding of the industry.
• To be part of a company that values integrity, inspiration, care and collaboration.
• Benefits include: competitive remuneration packages; unique career opportunities, including working in other countries; access to training and development programmes; flexible relocation support.

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