Job Introduction
Serco is a leading Space Services Provider with thousands of skilled resources that has supported over 50 space missions on behalf of more than 10 Space or Government agencies around the globe, including the ESA and NASA. Serco offers space capability across the full space lifecycle from satellite testing to launch services, LEOP to spacecraft operations, space surveillance to data management, and supporting downstream application development.
ESO (European Organisation for Astronomical Research in the Southern Hemisphere) is a leading institution for astronomy research, operating some of the world’s most advanced observatories. With locations in Chile and Germany, ESO provides scientists worldwide with access to cutting-edge instruments and data, enabling them to explore the universe and answer fundamental questions about its origins, evolution, and structure. ESO's missions focus on ensuring the continued operation and enhancement of its astronomical archives, maintaining high-quality data accessibility, and supporting the global scientific community in their research efforts.
On behalf of our customer ESO, we are looking for a Database and Archive Interface Specialist to join our team in Garching, Munich. Your mission will be to manage ESO’s operational databases, including content verification and publication, while developing and maintaining efficient, user-friendly web interfaces for the astronomical community, ensuring easy access to critical data.
Main Responsibilities
Database Content Management:
- Support ESO staff in the Database Owner role: development and maintenance of database objects, including relevant documentation (tables containing metadata or quality control information from ESO instruments)
- Ensure the smooth transfer of data between ESO databases in Garching and Chile, regularly checking and synchronizing the content of databases, and developing tools or scripts for consistency checks
- Oversee and troubleshoot the process of publishing and releasing data and metadata from the ESO Archive to users
- Prepare special data releases (e.g., instrument commissioning, science verification) that are not publicly accessible
- Monitor the back-end (Archive) databases for erroneous content and implement approved repairs or corrections
- Assist ESO IT in troubleshooting database server performance issues
Archive User Interfaces:
- Support the development and maintenance of the Science Archive web presence, including platforms such as archive.eso.org, support.eso.org, and others
- Process requirements from various ESO organizational units to improve and update archive user interfaces and web services
- Design, implement, test, document, and maintain archive web-based and programmatic interfaces for the user community
- Support the installation and testing of new archive services and tools that interact with databases and provide programmatic access to data
- Assist with internal and external user inquiries related to accessing archive user interfaces, ensuring data accessibility in line with ESO’s Data Access Policy
- Publish announcements and news related to Science Archive Interface activities (e.g., data releases, maintenance, downtimes)
Successful Candidate
Do you think you are the person we are looking for? See below what experience or knowledge you should bring:
- At least three years’ of experience working with databases using SQL, including knowledge of inner/outer joins, indexes, constraints, stored procedures, triggers, and query optimization
- Proficiency in web technologies such as HTML5, CSS, and Javascript
- At least three years’ of experience with programming languages (e.g. Unix Shell, Python, Perl), and software management fundamentals (version control, configuration control, and documentation)
- Experience with NoSQL databases and Virtual Observatory standards is an asset
- Familiarity with SAP ASE, Microsoft SQL Server, and other database management systems
- Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and external users
- Ability to work largely unsupervised and manage tasks independently while contributing to team efforts
- Fluent in English
Nice to have:
- Experience in managing astronomical data in FITS format
- Knowledge of database performance tuning and troubleshooting
- Familiarity with tools for web-based data access and interface development
All candidates must be eligible to work in the EU.
On Offer:
- Relocation allowance upon providing receipts
- Hybrid working model
- 30% subvention on Deutschland ticket
- Gym membership discount
- Participation in pension and health scheme
- 30 days of holiday
Relocation :
Garching/Munich, Germany, offers a central location in Europe, making it an ideal base for travel and business within the EU. Major cities are well-connected by road, rail, and air, with Munich Airport being one of the busiest and most well-connected airports in Europe, facilitating easy international travel.
Serco Services GmbH offers relocation support for all candidates eligible to work in the EU that are planning to relocate to Germany and work for ESO.
About the Company
Serco GmbH has established itself as a strong service provider in the German market, delivering high-quality engineering, technical, and management services across a variety of sectors. From its strategic position in Darmstadt, Serco supports critical operations for space, satellite, and technology projects, providing expertise in ground systems management, data processing, and mission logistics. Serco’s comprehensive service portfolio, backed by decades of experience, ensures operational excellence and efficiency, making it a trusted partner for both commercial and governmental clients in Germany. This strong foundation allows Serco GmbH to drive innovation and deliver value across the industry.
Why should you join Serco ?
At Serco not only is the nature of the work we do important, everyone has an important role to play.
Meaningful and vital work - You’ll contribute to methodologically intercepting challenges whilst achievements will also be recognised and celebrated.
A world of opportunity - You’ll be wholeheartedly supported with development and career progression
Great people - You’ll become an integral member of a well-defined and supportive team who believe passionately in the value of our work. We are a company passionate about diversity and inclusion.
We are diverse and inclusive organisation
At Serco, we see people first and foremost for their performance and potential and we are committed to supporting the needs of all our colleagues. It’s a mix of people from different backgrounds, experiences and opinion that keeps our culture strong and vibrant.
We believe in equity so we strongly encourage applications from a diverse range of candidates. Disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the job are encouraged to apply and demonstrate their abilities in an interview. We also welcome a conversation about any adjustments that would make the interview process more accessible for you. Wherever possible we are open to discussions around flexible working and we operate a hybrid work structure in many of our business areas.
In the UK we are proud to be a Disability Confident Leader in the government’s scheme and hold the Gold Inclusive Employer Standard; in Belgium we are partner of Diversicom and member of Charter der Vielfalt in Germany.
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to The Serco Europe Recruitment Team
Important
Any offer of employment is contingent upon you providing documents to verify your identity and employment eligibility, as required by law.
Please contact the recruitment team if needed
Data Protection:
For more information on how the personal data is processed, please see the link Data Protection policy here.