On-board Computers and Data Handling Engineer

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Position Title: On-board Computers and Data Handling Engineer
Location: Noordwijk
Country: Netherlands
Deadline Date: 13 December 2024 23:59 CET/CEST

Job Details

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 operates across various countries in Europe and collaborates with numerous international partners. ESA'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. The agency is involved in a wide range of activities, including Earth observation, human spaceflight, and planetary exploration, and is committed to advancing scientific knowledge and technological innovation in the field of space exploration.

Job Overview:
The On-board Computers and Data Handling Engineer will work within the Data Handling Section of the Avionics and EEE Division, part of the Electrical Department at ESA. This role involves providing expert technical support and consultancy for ESA projects, focusing on on-board computers and data handling systems. The engineer will engage in various project phases, from feasibility studies to evaluations of procurement proposals. The position emphasizes the development of innovative data handling architectures and the implementation of cutting-edge technologies. The engineer will also be responsible for conducting research and development activities that address both short- and long-term mission needs, ensuring that ESA remains at the forefront of technological advancements in space applications. The role requires collaboration with other experts in software, microelectronics, and applications engineering to ensure comprehensive solutions are developed for complex space missions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The primary duties of the On-board Computers and Data Handling Engineer include:

• Providing expert technical support and consultancy to ESA projects and programmes in the fields of on-board computers and data handling systems.
• Participating in feasibility studies, project reviews, and evaluations of procurement proposals.
• Identifying critical development problems and assisting in their resolution.
• Contributing to the definition of technology development requirements and work plans for ESA's technology programmes.
• Defining, initiating, and managing R&D activities that address ESA's mission needs.
• Fostering new application areas for multidisciplinary activities, emphasizing innovative concepts and system architectures.
• Conducting laboratory activities as required.
• Monitoring scientific and technological trends to maintain state-of-the-art expertise.
• Disseminating results and transferring knowledge across the Agency. 1
• Supporting other activities within the engineer's field of competence as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in electronics, electrical engineering, or a related field. A minimum of 10 years of professional experience is required, specifically in the design, review, simulation, and verification of data handling architectures. Experience in hardware development and testing for on-board data handling systems is essential. Candidates should also have a solid understanding of related technologies and R&D trends, as well as experience in project support and procurement activities. Knowledge of security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security protocols and failure detection systems will be considered an asset. The ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment is crucial, as is a commitment to continuous improvement and operational efficiency.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in electronics, electrical engineering, networks, telecommunications, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background provides the foundational knowledge necessary for understanding complex data handling systems and their applications in space technology.

Experience:
The position requires at least 10 years of relevant professional experience. This experience should encompass the design, review, simulation, and verification of end-to-end processing chains and data handling architectures. Candidates should have hands-on experience with the design and testing of on-board computers and data handling equipment, as well as familiarity with FPGAs, microcontrollers, and rad-hard components. Experience in laboratory environments for testing data handling modules is also essential.

Languages:
The working languages of ESA are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these languages is mandatory, while knowledge of another Member State language would be considered an asset. This linguistic requirement ensures effective communication within the diverse workforce of ESA and facilitates collaboration with international partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is a permanent contract within the ESA framework, specifically within the grade band A2-A

• However, candidates with less than four years of relevant experience may be considered for a position at the A1 level. Applicants must be eligible to access technology and hardware subject to European and US export control regulations and must undergo security clearance by 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, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates, particularly women and individuals with disabilities.