Robotics Systems Engineer

Robotics Systems Engineer (Robotics Engineer)

Description

Robotics Engineer in the Robotics Section, Optics, Robotics and Life Sciences Division, Mechanical Department, Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality.

The Robotics Section provides functional support to ESA projects and carries out technological research (R&D) in the field of space robotics systems, from manipulators to autonomous vehicles, and laboratory testing in support of automation and robotics in manned and unmanned missions. The Section specialises in system engineering of space automation and robotics systems.

Space robotics is a highly multidisciplinary area that depends heavily on the underlying space disciplines of structures, mechanisms, avionics, on-board software, ground operations and communication. Bringing all these disciplines closely together in a single system that moves and interacts physically with its environment, and with humans with a certain degree of autonomy, creates a complexity that constitutes in itself a new discipline.
System engineering of space automation and robotics systems is the discipline of specifying, designing and ultimately validating space automation and robotic systems that fulfil utilisation needs under defined environmental and operational constraints.

Duties

Reporting to the Head of Section and within the technical fields described above, your main tasks and responsibilities will include:

• Providing technical expertise and consultancy to ESA projects, programmes and general studies in the field of space robotics systems throughout all project phases;
• Participating in feasibility studies, project reviews and the evaluation of procurement proposals;
• Identifying critical development problems and actively working towards their resolution in coordination with other ESA experts;
• Contributing to the definition of technology development requirements and work plans for the Agency’s technology programmes;
• Defining, initiating and managing R&D activities covering both long- and short-term needs;
• Leading field test activities to validate and verify robot systems of R&D and project origin;
• Leading and performing laboratory test activities as required;
• Monitoring applicable scientific and technological trends and maintaining state-of-the-art expertise;
• Disseminating the results of the activities performed and actively contributing to the transfer of knowledge across the Agency.

Your duties may also include supporting other activities within your field of expertise.

Technical competencies

• General background and experience in the technical domains covered by the position
• Understanding of related technologies, R&D trends and the industrial landscape
• Multi-year experience with laboratory/field testing of robotic planetary/orbital systems and their ground truthing
• Experience in general design, verification and validation means used in orbital and planetary robotics
• Experience in the preparation of procurement activities for technology development and innovation, such as statements of work and proposal evaluation

Behavioural competencies

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

Education

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

Additional requirements

10+ years of experience in the field of robotics is considered an asset.

Important Information and Disclaimer

• Applicants must be eligible to access information, technology, and hardware which is subject to European or US export control and sanctions regulations and eligible to acquire the security clearance by their national security administrations.
• Note that ESA is in the process of transitioning to a Matrix setup, which could lead to organisational changes affecting this position.

Nationality and Languages

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.