Flight Dynamics 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 operates across multiple countries in Europe and collaborates with various international partners to advance space science and technology. ESA's mission encompasses a wide range of activities, including Earth observation, human spaceflight, and planetary exploration, with a commitment to fostering innovation and scientific research in the field of space.

Job Overview:
The Flight Dynamics Engineer position is situated within the Earth Observation Mission Support Section of the Flight Dynamics Division at the Directorate of Operations. The primary function of this role is to provide comprehensive flight dynamics solutions for various satellite projects. This includes engaging in study, development, testing, operations, evaluation, and maintenance activities that address both infrastructure and project-specific challenges. The engineer will be involved in critical and routine operations support for ESA Earth observation missions, such as CryoSat-2, SWARM, EarthCARE, and Biomass, as well as upcoming missions like FLEX, FORUM, and Harmony. Additionally, the role encompasses flight dynamics support for Sentinel missions under the ESA/European Commission Copernicus Programme, routine operations for legacy science missions, and early orbit operations for third-party Earth orbiting missions. The engineer will also be responsible for the development, validation, and utilization of operational software related to orbit and attitude determination, control, and command generation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Flight Dynamics Engineer will undertake a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: gathering and managing requirements for flight dynamics support for projects; gathering and managing software requirements; performing and supervising studies; developing, adapting, and maintaining both generic and project-specific software elements; coordinating internal support within the division and representing the division externally; participating in launch preparation activities and operations; and coordinating routine and contingency recovery support activities. Furthermore, the engineer may be required to engage in other division tasks and manage technical work packages executed by industrial service providers, ensuring that all activities align with the overarching goals of the agency and the specific missions being supported.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in mathematics and orbital mechanics, along with experience in flight dynamics systems engineering and software systems development. A proven track record in flight dynamics operations support and coordination for Earth observation missions is essential. Familiarity with modern software design methodologies is also required. The ideal candidate will demonstrate result orientation, operational efficiency, fostering cooperation, relationship management, continuous improvement, and forward-thinking capabilities, as outlined in the ESA Core Behavioural Competencies guidebook.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in mathematics, physics, or a relevant engineering field is mandatory for this position. This educational background provides the foundational knowledge necessary for understanding complex flight dynamics and orbital mechanics, which are critical to the role.

Experience:
The position requires several years of active participation in flight dynamics support for space missions. Candidates should be adept at establishing working interfaces in a multi-disciplinary and multi-project operational environment, showcasing their ability to collaborate effectively across various teams and projects.

Languages:
Proficiency in English or French is required, as these are the working languages of the Agency. Knowledge of an additional language from another Member State would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate within the diverse environment of ESA.

Additional Notes:
The appointment is for a duration of four years, with the possibility of extension to an indefinite term. The position is classified within the grade band A2 - A4, with the potential for placement at the A1 level for candidates with less than four years of relevant professional experience post-master's degree. Applicants must be eligible to access information, technology, and hardware subject to European or US export control and sanctions regulations. The recruitment process may include selection tests, and successful candidates will undergo basic screening before appointment, in compliance with ESA's security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security procedures. The agency is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusiveness, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics.