ERS-EO/SRN 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 encompass 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 across 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 ERS-EO/SRN Applications Engineer position is integral to the European Resilience from Space – Earth Observation Programme (ERS-EO). This role focuses on the implementation of Space Resilience Nodes (SRN), which aim to enhance disaster and crisis management through the integration of space-enabled solutions. The engineer will work closely with the ERS-EO/SRN Manager and will be responsible for defining, procuring, and technically managing SRN activities. This includes a strong emphasis on Earth Observation (EO) systems, AI-based analytics, and related applications. The engineer will also engage with various stakeholders, including public protection and disaster relief agencies, to ensure that the SRNs effectively meet user needs and contribute to operational practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the ERS-EO/SRN Applications Engineer include supporting the architectural definition and implementation of SRN activities, preparing and implementing procurement actions, and ensuring technical management and monitoring of industrial activities. The engineer will review technical documentation, participate in progress meetings, and accept deliverables. Additionally, the role involves defining and implementing test, validation, and demonstration campaigns with users, contributing to the design and integration of prototype services, and identifying technological gaps and innovation opportunities. The engineer will also coordinate with ESA and external stakeholders, contribute to communication and outreach activities, and provide updates on the status and progress of SRN activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of Earth observation missions and data, particularly in the resilience domain. Solid experience in technical and operational domains related to SRNs is essential, preferably in areas such as disaster risk management and climate adaptation. Direct experience in managing industrial activities throughout their lifecycle, including procurement, is required. A good understanding of AI and ML methods applied to EO datasets, as well as knowledge of ICT architectures and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security controls, is also necessary. Familiarity with ESA's procurement processes and security frameworks is advantageous.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in a relevant engineering subject is required for this position. Additional specialization in Earth observation data processing and exploitation or advanced information systems would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's profile for this role.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of relevant experience is required, demonstrating a high level of motivation and the ability to work effectively in an international and interdisciplinary team. Candidates should be capable of managing day-to-day technical challenges while maintaining an overall system view. Previous experience interfacing with institutional users, such as civil protection or environmental authorities, is beneficial.

Languages:
The working languages of ESA are English and French, with a good knowledge of one of these languages being mandatory. Knowledge of another Member State language would be considered an asset, enhancing communication within the diverse workforce of ESA.

Additional Notes:
The position is a four-year appointment, extendable to indefinite, and falls within the grade band A2-A

• Recruitment will be conducted within this band, but candidates with less than four years of relevant experience may be considered for an A1 level position. Applicants must be eligible to access information subject to European or US export control regulations. The recruitment process may include selection tests, and successful candidates will undergo basic screening before appointment. ESA is committed to diversity and inclusiveness, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or other characteristics.