Luxembourgish National Graduate Trainee in Opto-Electronics and Quantum Engineering

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 multiple countries across Europe and collaborates with various international partners to advance space science and technology.

Job Overview:
The Luxembourgish National Graduate Trainee in Opto-Electronics and Quantum Engineering position is designed for recent Master’s graduates who are looking to gain practical experience in the field of space technology. This role is part of the ESA National Graduate Trainee (NGT) Programmes, which provide a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects related to optoelectronic devices and quantum technologies. The successful candidate will be involved in various projects that include the development of simulation tools for optical or quantum communication systems, testbed development for advanced spaceborne optoelectronic applications, and the calibration and validation of Lidar terminals for various applications. This position not only offers hands-on experience but also the chance to contribute to significant advancements in space technology, working alongside a team of approximately 25 engineers dedicated to optoelectronic technologies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
As a National Graduate Trainee, the candidate will be expected to support the following duties and responsibilities:

• Develop simulation tools for optical or quantum communications systems.
• Participate in the testbed development of advanced spaceborne optoelectronic applications, including optical detectors and lasers.
• Assist in the integration and commissioning of upgraded laser-induced contamination characterization setups.
• Contribute to the assembly and commissioning of an optoelectronics test bench for the characterization of scientific digital CMOS image sensors.
• Calibrate and validate Lidar terminals for Guidance Navigation and Control and In-Orbit Servicing applications.
• Collaborate with team members to develop laboratory test setups and simulation tools in imaging detectors, optical communication, and quantum communication.
• Engage in continuous learning and professional development through participation in ESA's training programs and workshops.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a recently completed or be in the final year of a master’s degree in physics or a relevant engineering discipline. Additionally, knowledge and experience in working with optical laboratory setups, including lasers and detectors, as well as real-time data acquisition or programming and modeling skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB, LabView) are highly desirable. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential, as the candidate will be working in a multicultural environment and may need to collaborate with international teams.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a master’s degree in physics or a relevant engineering discipline. Candidates who are in the final year of their master’s program are also encouraged to apply. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complex technical aspects of optoelectronics and quantum engineering.

Experience:
The position is aimed at recent graduates, so prior professional experience is not strictly required. However, relevant experience gained during internships, project work, or extracurricular activities will be considered an asset. Candidates with previous experience working in international teams or on space-related projects will have an advantage during the selection process.

Languages:
The working languages of the European Space Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these languages is mandatory for the position. Additionally, knowledge of another Member State language would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively within the diverse ESA environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is a National Graduate Trainee role, which is typically a full-time appointment. The contract duration is not specified in the job ad, but it is common for graduate trainee positions to last for a fixed term, often ranging from 6 to 12 months. The successful candidate will be required to undergo basic screening before appointment, which will be conducted by an external background screening service in compliance with ESA's security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security procedures. The agency is committed to diversity and inclusiveness, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics.