Copernicus Sentinel-2 NG Instrument Optical and Performance Lead 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 across various domains, including Earth observation, human spaceflight, exploration, and telecommunications, and collaborates with numerous international partners to advance space science and technology.

Job Overview:
The Copernicus Sentinel-2 NG Instrument Optical and Performance Lead Engineer will play a crucial role in the Payload Management Section of the Copernicus S2 and S2 Next Generation Project. This position is vital for ensuring the continuity of the Copernicus Sentinel-2 first-generation measurements into the 2030s. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the procurement, timely delivery, and integration of all optical elements related to the S2 NG instrument. This role requires close collaboration with other engineers and coordination of specialized technical support from the Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality (D/TEC). The engineer will also support additional Copernicus projects that involve optical instruments, such as LSTM and CHIME, thereby contributing to the broader objectives of the Copernicus Space Segment Programme.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The primary duties of the Copernicus Sentinel-2 NG Instrument Optical and Performance Lead Engineer include managing industrial activities related to the optical elements of the S2 NG instrument. This involves supervising the specification, design, procurement, development, and verification of all optical components, including detector filters, optical beam splitters, mirrors, and on-board calibration units. The engineer will lead the requirements and specifications for instrument optical elements, ensuring alignment with mission requirements and technical budgets. Responsibilities also include coordinating end-to-end performance verification, monitoring industrial progress, and managing technical interfaces between subsystems. The engineer will provide regular reports to project management, identify technical risks, and propose mitigation measures. Additionally, the role involves leading a team of engineers and supporting spacecraft AIV activities, including validation of operational modes and preparation for launch campaigns.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in a relevant engineering discipline, 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 be considered. Extensive knowledge of optical design, integration, and performance evaluation of optical space-borne instruments is highly desirable. Familiarity with project risk management processes, industrial costs, and schedule aspects is also required. The ideal candidate should demonstrate strong result orientation, operational efficiency, and the ability to foster cooperation and manage relationships effectively.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in a relevant engineering discipline is mandatory for this position. Candidates with a bachelor's degree may be considered if they have an additional four years of relevant professional experience. The educational background should ideally include coursework or training in optical engineering, remote sensing, or related fields that equip the candidate with the necessary technical competencies for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of relevant professional experience in the field of optical engineering or a related discipline. Candidates with a bachelor's degree must have a total of eight years of relevant experience. Experience in managing technical interfaces within a project team environment, particularly in the context of space systems, is essential. Familiarity with the design, development, and testing of optical instruments is also critical for success in this role.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as it is one of the working languages of the Agency. 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 environment of ESA.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term appointment with an initial duration of four years, which may be extended up to a maximum of eight years based on performance and organizational needs. The recruitment will be conducted within the advertised grade band (A2-A4), with the possibility of filling the position at A1 level for candidates with less than four years of relevant experience. 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. The recruitment process may involve selection tests, and successful candidates will undergo basic screening before appointment.