Earth Observation Data Simulation Architect

Join ESA as an Earth Observation Data Simulation Architect

Earth Observation Data Simulation Architect, System Analysis Office, System Support Division, Earth Observation Projects Department, Directorate of Earth Observation Programmes.

The System Support Division provides support to all Earth Observation missions in all project phases. This support includes contributions to the management of mission data simulation contracts and the provision of a coherent set of software tools, designed to be integrated as CFI or IMA in the mission data pre-launch simulation, mission data post-launch production, and other mission-related software applications, or used for mission data analysis and verification.

You report to the Head of the Systems Analysis Section and will be responsible for supporting mission software developers and users in following adequate processes during the development, deployment and operations of the mission data simulation software applications. You will also be responsible for managing the coherent design and evolution of a set of software tools, ensuring its timely provision to all relevant contracts or internal users, and providing continuous support to users of the tools.

Duties

The scope of your tasks and responsibilities will cover software components, including applications, utility tools and libraries, used for mission pre-launch data simulation, mission post-launch data production, mission data analysis and mission data performance verification.

• Driving the definition, implementation, testing and evolution of software components; these include observation scene generation, instrument/payload simulation and characterisation and mission data processing, as well as software tools providing precise information on orbit and geometry.
• Ensuring the coherence of the software components with general mission and system requirements, system capabilities, and operations constraints.
• Supporting the documentation of mission data definition.
• Coordinating the development and service contracts for the required software components, including the definition and maintenance of the required processing algorithms, during initial development and later evolutions; this includes liaising with industrial suppliers for the resolution of issues, including the implementation of formal corrections and quick workarounds as necessary.
• Supporting the process of verification of the necessary level of mission data quality, including the definition and application of calibration and validation processes as necessary.
• Interfacing with Space Segment teams, Ground Segment teams, scientific teams and/or other external contributors to ensure coherence of the software components and their integration with other mission software components and applications.
• Coordinating the deployment and operational use of the software components on ESA computing infrastructure to support mission performance verification activities.
• Supporting mission data simulation and processing activities, including monitoring of coherent development processes, definition of mission data products, production of test datasets, and cross-verification with other systems or tools.
• Maintaining, evolving, and governing the Earth Observation mission software applications and tool reference architecture, ensuring coherence with the needs of evolving Earth Observation missions and promoting reuse across projects. This includes close collaboration with ESA internal teams, industrial partners, and scientific stakeholders.

Technical competencies

• Solid understanding of End-to-End simulators architecture
• Experience in developing and deploying software components
• Expertise in standard data formats and formats relevant for space missions auxiliary data
• Experience in installing, configuring, and integrating software applications and tools across heterogeneous environments
• Experience in the preparation, execution, and monitoring of industrial activities
• Experience in engaging iteratively with user communities (science, engineering and operations teams)
• Experience in the design, implementation, and troubleshooting of software running across multiple platforms (Linux, Windows, Mac environments)

Behavioural competencies

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

Education

A master’s degree in a relevant engineering or scientific discipline is required for this post.

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, religious beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics.

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.