LEO-PNT Lead end-to-end Performance Engineer

LEO-PNT Lead end-to-end Performance Engineer

European Space Agency (ESA)

May 3, 2026May 16, 2026LeoBurkina Faso
Job Description
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 satellite navigation, and is involved in numerous international collaborations.

Job Overview:
The LEO-PNT Lead end-to-end Performance Engineer will play a crucial role within the Celeste System Unit of the Future Navigation Department at ESA. This position is focused on the Celeste Programme, which aims to establish a European Low Earth Orbit Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (LEO-PNT) capability. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing the performance requirements of the Celeste and LEO-PNT systems, ensuring that they align with mission objectives and the design of the space segment. The role involves leading a team of engineers, coordinating with various stakeholders, and contributing to the development of innovative solutions that enhance the resilience and accuracy of navigation services. The engineer will also oversee the implementation of the Celeste In-Orbit Demonstrator and Preparatory phases, which are essential for preparing a future operational system and unlocking commercial opportunities in the PNT market.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the LEO-PNT Lead end-to-end Performance Engineer include managing the performance requirements for the Celeste and LEO-PNT systems, leading a team of engineers, ensuring the quality and maintenance of performance tools, contributing to system architecture and operations concepts, and overseeing the performance verification program. The engineer will interface with ground segment teams, coordinate pre-flight and in-flight commissioning activities, and support project management by providing regular reports on performance aspects. Additionally, the engineer will be responsible for identifying risks and proposing mitigation actions, as well as supporting interactions with delegations and partners as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong result orientation, excellent planning and organizational skills, and the ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written forms. A master’s degree in engineering or a related field is required, along with at least four years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, candidates with a bachelor’s degree and an additional four years of relevant experience may also be considered. Experience in LEO-PNT systems or GNSS systems is considered an asset, as well as strong relationship management skills in an international context.

Educational Background:
A master’s degree in engineering or a related field is mandatory for this position. Candidates with a bachelor’s degree may also be considered if they have additional relevant professional experience. The educational background should include a strong foundation in engineering principles, particularly those related to satellite navigation and performance engineering.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of relevant professional experience in the field of engineering, particularly in system engineering, satellite navigation systems, or LEO-PNT specific performance aspects. Candidates with less experience may be considered for a lower grade level, depending on their qualifications and expertise.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is one of the working languages of ESA. Knowledge of French is also required. Additionally, proficiency in another language from a Member State would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's profile for this international role.

Additional Notes:
The position is a four-year appointment, extendable to indefinite, and is classified within the grade band A2-A
  • Recruitment will be conducted in accordance with ESA's policies, ensuring diversity and inclusiveness in the workforce. Candidates must be eligible to access information subject to European or US export control regulations and must be able to acquire security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security-clearance" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security clearance. The recruitment process may include selection tests and background screening. ESA is committed to providing necessary support for individuals with disabilities during the recruitment process and in the workplace.
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