Copernicus LSTM Lead Space Segment 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 achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The Copernicus LSTM Lead Space Segment Engineer will play a pivotal role in the Copernicus Land Surface Temperature Monitoring (LSTM) mission, which is part of the Earth Observation Programmes Directorate. This mission aims to provide high-resolution thermal infrared observations to monitor land surface temperature, thereby supporting sustainable agriculture and water resource management. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the development of the LSTM space segment, focusing on satellite engineering, industrial coordination, and technical risk management throughout various phases of the project, including development, qualification, launch, and commissioning. The role requires close collaboration with specialists from different directorates and industrial partners, ensuring that the project meets its technical and programmatic requirements while managing risks effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The main duties of the Copernicus LSTM Lead Space Segment Engineer include leading the specification, design, procurement, development, and verification of spacecraft and related hardware throughout the project lifecycle. This involves monitoring industrial progress, ensuring compliance with technical requirements, and resolving non-conformances. The engineer will coordinate with project management and various engineering domains to ensure coherence between planning and development activities. Additionally, the role includes supporting launch campaign preparations, contributing to payload specifications, and providing regular reports on project status and technical risks. The engineer will also act as the Deputy Spacecraft Manager, taking on delegated responsibilities for project management aspects and ensuring effective communication and coordination among all stakeholders involved in the project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in a relevant domain, along with a minimum of 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. Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, are essential, as is the ability to work effectively in an international team environment. Candidates should demonstrate problem-solving abilities, decision-making skills, and a commitment to supporting team members and stakeholders throughout the project.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in a relevant field is required for this position. Candidates with a bachelor's degree may be considered if they have additional relevant professional experience. The educational background should ideally include coursework or training related to space engineering, project management, or a closely related discipline.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of relevant professional experience in space segment engineering, spacecraft design, development, integration, verification, and testing. Experience in managing technical interfaces within a project team environment and knowledge of complex project schedule and risk management processes are also essential. Candidates with international experience or exposure to various functional areas relevant to ESA activities will be preferred.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as it is one of the working languages of ESA. A good knowledge of French is also required. Knowledge of another language from a Member State would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively within the diverse ESA environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is a four-year appointment, extendable to indefinite, and falls 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. The recruitment process may include selection tests, and successful candidates will undergo basic screening before appointment. The agency values diversity and is committed to accommodating individuals with disabilities in the workplace.