System Analysis Principal Engineer

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Position Title: System Analysis Principal Engineer
Location: Noordwijk
Country: Netherlands
Deadline Date: 26 November 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'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 System Analysis Principal Engineer will be part of the System Analysis Office within the Earth Observation Projects Department. This role involves providing comprehensive support to all Earth Observation missions throughout their lifecycle, from initial studies to mission disposal. The engineer will conduct performance assessments and improvement studies, collaborating closely with mission managers and engineers. The position requires a strong understanding of mission analysis, including geometry calculations, orbit and attitude definitions, and mission data downlink strategies. The engineer will also represent the team in interactions with both internal and external partners, ensuring effective communication and collaboration on system analysis tasks.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The specific duties of the System Analysis Principal Engineer include conducting and consolidating system analysis tasks for Earth Observation missions, providing expert support to Future Mission managers during the early phases of missions, and ensuring expert support to Satellite managers during subsequent phases. The engineer will also support operations teams during launch preparations and commissioning phases, consolidate standard work methods for mission analysis, and participate in key mission reviews to provide expert advice. Additionally, the engineer will interface with mission engineers and scientists, Flight Dynamics teams, and Post-Launch teams to define and report on relevant studies, analyze satellite geometry, and support the overall mission objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in system analysis, particularly in the context of Earth observation missions. They should have experience with mission analysis software tools, knowledge of on-board operations, and familiarity with orbit and attitude control systems. The ability to specify software tools, provide clear reports, and negotiate study requirements with partners is essential. Strong coordination skills and the ability to develop pragmatic solutions in complex environments are also required.

Educational Background:
A master’s degree in an engineering field or a related subject is required for this position. This educational background should provide the necessary theoretical foundation and practical skills to effectively perform the duties associated with system analysis in Earth observation missions.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience in end-to-end mission and system analysis, particularly in Earth observation. Candidates should have a proven track record of working on similar projects and possess the ability to navigate complex technical environments. Experience in negotiating study requirements and coordinating with various stakeholders is also essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English or French is mandatory, as these are the working languages of the Agency. Knowledge of another language from an ESA Member State is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's profile and ability to communicate effectively in a diverse environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is permanent and falls within the grade band A2-A4. However, candidates with less than four years of relevant professional experience may be considered for an A1 level position. 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. The agency values a diverse workforce and aims to create an inclusive working environment.