Instrumentation Engineer

Description

Instrumentation Engineer in the Life Support and Physical Sciences Instrumentation Section, Mechatronics and Optics Division, Mechanical Department, Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality.

The Life Support and Physical Sciences Instrumentation Section within the Mechatronics and Optics Division focuses on payloads for Human and Robotic Exploration, Environmental Control and Life Support (ECLS), and In Situ Resource Utilisation (ISRU) design, engineering, and verification. It provides support to projects and preparatory and technology programmes. A specific focus is on the support to the Directorate of Human and Robotic Exploration for microgravity and planetary payload implementation.

Duties

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

• Providing engineering support, including technical risk management, to ESA projects, programs and general studies in the field of payload development for planetary missions throughout all project phases.
• Actively following up and interfacing with industry and the science community for payload development and integration for planetary missions.
• Actively following-up and interfacing with industry and the science community for payload development and integration for payloads onboard ISS and follow-up platforms.
• Participating in feasibility studies, project reviews and the evaluation of procurement proposals.
• Identifying critical development problems and assisting in their resolution.
• Contributing to the definition of technology development requirements and work plans for the Agency’s technology programs.
• Defining, initiating and managing R&D activities covering both long- and short-term needs.
• Monitoring applicable scientific and technological trends and maintaining state-of-the-art expertise.
• Contributing to the dissemination of the results of the activities performed and the transfer of knowledge across the Agency.
• Provide support for laboratory and integration activities if needed.

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

Technical competencies

General background and specific experience of at least 5 years in the technical domain covered by the position for payload development and implementation.

Hands-on hardware experience.

Payload implementation and AIV/AIT experience.

Experience in the preparation of procurement activities for technology development and innovation (Statements of Work, proposal evaluation, etc.).

Understanding of related technologies, R&D trends and the industrial landscape.

Experience in the management and monitoring of industrial activities, including participation in reviews.

Experience with space engineering standards, their preparation and implementation.

Behavioural competencies

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

Education

A master's degree or PhD in an engineering discipline combined with a deep knowledge of payload development and integration.

Additional requirements

Experience in spaceflight instrumentation hardware development and qualification.

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.