Earth Observation Future Missions Technology Coordination and Spacecraft Platform Engineer

Earth Observation Future Missions Technology Coordination and Spacecraft Platform Engineer

Description

Earth Observation (EO) Future Missions Technology Coordination and Spacecraft Platform Engineer in the Future Missions and Instruments Division of the Future Missions and Architecture Department, Directorate of Earth Observation Programmes (D/EOP).

Duties

Reporting to the Head of the Technology Coordination and Frequency Management Section, you will work in close cooperation with other staff members of the Future Missions and Instruments Division and the Future Missions and Architecture Department (EOP-F). You will also liaise very closely with the EO Projects Department (EOP-P) and with the Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality (D/TEC).

As part of your duties, you will be responsible for the following tasks related to Earth observation (EO) technology:

• identifying technology needs for the EO spacecraft platform based on space system requirements and lessons learned from previous and ongoing EO missions, including potential spin-in from other industrial sectors;
• contributing to the alignment of the EO strategy for technology with the EO science strategy;
• coordinating space technology planning with other directorates, in particular with the Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality and the Directorate of Operations;
• contributing to the EO technology observatory function outside D/EOP, as well as outside ESA (such as other space agencies, the European Commission or the commercial market);
• defining the evolution of generic EO spacecraft platform product lines (e.g. data handling, AOCS, onboard software, power, propulsion or communications with the ground segment) by European industry in collaboration with other stakeholders in the Agency;
• defining, negotiating, initiating and managing industrial technology development activities, as well as conducting internal studies, in the area of generic EO spacecraft platforms;
• supporting EO future missions preparation through the participation in the evaluation of proposals in response to calls, reviews, assessment of industrial results, etc.;
• maintaining and improving the EO technology databases to facilitate internal coordination within the Division and Department and with external stakeholders.

When performing these tasks, you will interact closely with representatives of industry and other space agencies.

Technical competencies

• Knowledge of ESA technology programmes and the organisation of R&D activities
• Knowledge of scientific discipline, including strategic vision of the Earth Observation area
• A background in space engineering with systems orientation and an end-to-end view of Earth observation missions
• Experience in spacecraft platform definition and/or development for Earth observation
• Familiarity with optical and/or microwave remote sensing techniques
• Experience in implementing and driving R&D and/or industrial activities for space technology development

Behavioural competencies

Result Orientation
Operational Efficiency Fostering Cooperation Relationship Management Continuous Improvement Forward Thinking

Education

A master’s degree or PhD in engineering or physics is required for this post.

Additional requirements

A relevant Earth observation background and at least five years of experience in mission system engineering are required.
Experience of working in a team or project environment is required. You are expected to be thorough in your approach, open to innovation and to be able to contribute to a dynamic and creative environment in preparatory phases of EO future missions. You should have good interpersonal skills and be able to work and interact within small teams as well as autonomously. Experience in spaceborne platform technologies and familiarity with EO remote sensing techniques would be an asset.

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, beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics. Applications from women are encouraged. 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 contact.human.resources@esa.int.

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, Latvia, Lithuania and Slovakia.

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.