Thermal Analysis and Verification 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 approximately 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 multiple countries, with its headquarters located in Paris, France, and various centers throughout Europe, including the European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) in Noordwijk, Netherlands, where this position is based. ESA is committed to fostering international cooperation in space exploration and technology development, and it plays a crucial role in various space missions and projects, including Earth observation, human spaceflight, and planetary exploration.

Job Overview:
The analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Thermal Analysis and Verification Engineer will be a key member of the Thermal Analysis and Verification Section within the Thermal Division of the Mechanical Department at ESA. This role involves providing expert technical support and consultancy to ESA projects, programs, and general studies in the field of thermal analysis and verification. The engineer will engage in interdisciplinary analysis, utilizing advanced thermal analysis methods and tools, and will be responsible for ensuring that thermal and mechanical verification processes are effectively carried out. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the thermal challenges faced by ESA missions, spacecraft, instruments, and equipment, thereby playing a vital role in the success of various space missions. The engineer will also participate in feasibility studies, project reviews, and evaluations of procurement proposals, ensuring that all project phases are supported with high-quality thermal analysis and verification.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The main tasks and responsibilities of the Thermal Analysis and Verification Engineer include: providing expert technical support and consultancy to ESA projects and programs in thermal analysis and verification; performing thermal and interdisciplinary analysis to support ESA projects; participating in thermal verification and testing activities; engaging in feasibility studies and project reviews; identifying critical development problems and assisting in their resolution; contributing to the definition of technology development requirements and work plans; defining, initiating, and managing R&D activities; monitoring scientific and technological trends; disseminating results and transferring knowledge across the Agency; and supporting other activities within the field of expertise as needed. The engineer will also be expected to maintain state-of-the-art expertise in thermal analysis and verification methods and tools, ensuring that ESA remains at the forefront of space thermal engineering.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in a relevant domain, along with at least 5 years of relevant professional experience. A strong background in thermal analysis tools, such as ESATAN-TMS, and knowledge of space thermal control engineering are essential. Additionally, candidates should have experience in project support within a relevant domain, environmental testing for space hardware, and laboratory or field testing of technical equipment. Experience in preparing procurement activities for technology development and laboratory technical infrastructure is also required. Knowledge of multidisciplinary analysis, software engineering, and numerical methods would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's profile for this position.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in a relevant field is mandatory for this position. This educational background should ideally be complemented by specialized training or coursework in thermal analysis, mechanical engineering, or related disciplines that provide a solid foundation for the technical challenges faced in space thermal engineering.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience following the completion of the master's degree. This experience should encompass practical applications of thermal analysis and verification in the context of space missions or similar high-tech environments. Candidates with less than four years of relevant experience may be considered for a lower grade level (A1).

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

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term appointment with an initial duration of 4 years, which may be extended up to a maximum of 8 years based on performance and organizational needs. The position is classified within the grade band A2 - A4, and recruitment will generally occur within this band. However, candidates with less than four years of relevant experience may be appointed at the A1 level. Applicants must be eligible to access information and technology 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 from their national security administrations. The recruitment process may include selection tests, and successful candidates will undergo basic screening before appointment. ESA is committed to diversity and inclusiveness in its workforce and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates, including individuals with disabilities.