Optical Technology 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, exploration, and telecommunications, and collaborates with numerous international partners to advance space science and technology.

Job Overview:
The Optical Technology Engineer will work within the Optical Technologies Section of the Ground Station Engineering Division at ESA. This role involves providing engineering support to various ESA programs and leading the development of ground-based optical assets. The engineer will be responsible for the research and development of optical technologies, including the design and implementation of optical ground stations for applications such as satellite communication, space debris observation, and optical communication systems. The position requires a strong focus on innovation and the introduction of new capabilities for space missions, particularly in the realm of optical communication and surveillance. The engineer will also engage in project management activities related to the operational introduction of these technologies, ensuring that they meet the necessary specifications and performance standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Optical Technology Engineer will have a range of responsibilities including:

• Developing and engineering optical ground stations for communication, surveillance, and tracking applications.
• Designing optical telescope systems and subsystems.
• Roadmapping optical technology developments and introducing new capabilities for space missions.
• Supporting the integration of optical communication systems into ground infrastructure for telecommunication and payload data download.
• Defining technology requirements for space situational awareness optical ground stations and overseeing pre-development activities.
• Specifying, developing, procuring, and validating analogue/digital subsystems for optical systems, including trade-off analysis.
• Conducting studies and technology development in optical technology, including prototyping.
• Managing industrial contracts related to optical technology development.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in engineering, physics, or space communication system engineering. Additionally, candidates should have a strong understanding of optical technologies and systems, particularly in the context of space applications. Familiarity with systems engineering principles and experience in managing technology development projects will be advantageous. Candidates should also demonstrate strong analytical skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in engineering, physics, or space communication system engineering is required for this position. This educational background provides the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to engage in the complex tasks associated with optical technology development and application in space missions.

Experience:
The position requires relevant professional experience, ideally four years or more, in the field of optical technology or related areas. Candidates with less than four years of experience may be considered for a lower grade level (A1). Experience in managing projects and working with optical systems in a space context will be particularly valuable.

Languages:
Fluency in English or French is mandatory, as these are the working languages of the Agency. Knowledge of another language from an ESA Member State is considered an asset, enhancing communication within the diverse workforce of ESA.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time appointment for a duration of four years, with the possibility of extension to an indefinite term. The recruitment process will prioritize candidates from ESA Member States, and applicants must be eligible to access information subject to European or US export control regulations. Successful candidates will undergo a background screening process as part of the appointment procedure. The position is based in Darmstadt, Germany, and may involve collaboration with various international partners.