EO Applications Engineer

Job Posting Organization:
The European Space Agency (ESA) is an intergovernmental organization dedicated to the exploration of space. Established in 1975, ESA has grown to include 22 member states and employs over 2,200 staff members. The agency's mission is to shape the development of Europe's space capability and ensure that investment in space continues to deliver benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world. ESA operates in various domains, including Earth observation, human spaceflight, and satellite navigation, and collaborates with numerous international partners to advance space science and technology.

Job Overview:
The EO Applications Engineer will report to the Head of the Enterprise Section within the Climate Action, Sustainability and Science Department of the Directorate of Earth Observation Programmes (EOP). This role is pivotal in driving innovative developments related to Earth Observation (EO) applications. The engineer will be responsible for initiating and managing application development activities that address structural barriers to the adoption of EO-based services. This includes identifying partner-funded activities where EO analytics can enhance outcomes, managing ESA-funded projects to integrate EO and non-EO data, and collaborating with key industry sectors to develop next-generation analytics capabilities. The engineer will also work closely with various ESA initiatives and directorates to ensure a cohesive approach to EO applications and services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the EO Applications Engineer include: collaborating with stakeholders to establish requirements for geoinformation products and services; identifying gaps in current capabilities; drafting technical specifications for applications and services; working with industry representatives to understand opportunities and threats regarding EO uptake; managing industrial procurements for the development of EO applications; interfacing with the EOP Ground Segment and Mission Management Department; contributing to ESA's communication efforts regarding EO results and benefits; and ensuring alignment with ESA and EU initiatives for industrial development and commercialization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in a relevant discipline such as Signal Processing, Earth Science, Environment, Ecology, Computer Science, or Data Science. Additionally, a minimum of four years of relevant professional experience is required. Experience in managing ESA contracts and procurements related to space application developments is advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, results orientation, and the ability to communicate effectively are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in a relevant field is mandatory for this position. This educational background should provide a solid foundation in the principles of Earth observation, data science, or related disciplines, equipping the candidate with the necessary skills to tackle complex challenges in the field of EO applications.

Experience:
The position requires at least four years of relevant professional experience. This experience should ideally include working with both public and private sector stakeholders to promote the uptake of space-based capabilities, as well as managing projects that utilize Earth observation data. Familiarity with ESA's EO programmes and activities is highly desirable.

Languages:
The working languages of ESA are English and French. A good command of one of these languages is required, while knowledge of another language from a Member State is considered an asset. This linguistic proficiency is essential for effective communication within the agency and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is a four-year appointment, extendable to indefinite. Recruitment will generally occur within the advertised grade band (A2-A4), but candidates with less than four years of relevant experience may be considered for an A1 level position. The recruitment process may include selection tests, and successful candidates will undergo a basic screening process. ESA is committed to diversity and inclusiveness, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or other characteristics. The agency also values individuals with disabilities and seeks to provide necessary support in the workplace.