Payload Validation Engineer

Payload Validation Engineer in the Payload Validation Section, Science Instrumentation Division, Future Missions Department, Directorate of Science. The Future Missions Department (SCI-F) oversees mission preparation activities for ESA’s science programmes, including mission definition studies (phases 0/A/B1) and technology development activities.

The Payload Validation Section (SCI-FIV) is responsible for conducting laboratory-based payload element validation activities, with the emphasis on imaging focal plane technologies, to provide support for development of the instrumentation for future ESA space science missions. The primary objective of these validation efforts is to verify that performance requirements are met under operational conditions, including assessing the effects of radiation.

Your key responsibilities will include: leading the laboratory-based validation activities, with a focus on UV-Vis-NIR focal plane technologies, including both detector and readout electronics aspects, by: coordinating with the mission study team, project team or operations team regarding the definition of the validation activities; preparing test documentation, such as test requirements, plans and reports; defining payload validation activity test setups; implementing validation activity setups, with the emphasis on infrared imaging detectors and the associated control electronics; performing commissioning of the validation activity setup; conducting tests using the validation activity setup; analysing test data and reporting to the relevant study team, project team or operations team; supporting the development and maintenance of the general technical infrastructure essential for validating payload technologies; defining and implementing, in close collaboration with other sections within the Department, ESA-funded payload activities and predevelopments; ensuring that payload elements, whether nationally- or ESA-provided, meet the necessary definition maturity and technology readiness levels at the time of mission adoption; identifying and producing new instrument technologies required for the Directorate’s programmes and participating in the preparation and implementation of the Voyage 2050 technology development plan; providing payload expertise and support to studies and projects under development as required, for example through participation in reviews and working groups or technical support.

A PhD or master’s degree in physics or engineering is required for this post. You should also: be able to work in a small multidisciplinary team and be flexible and able to multitask; have the relationship management skills required to balance interactions with various ESA stakeholders, including scientific institutions and industry; be self-motivated. International experience is an asset, i.e. outside your home country, as well as experience in diverse functional areas relevant to ESA activities.

ESA is an equal opportunity employer, committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment. We therefore welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics. Applications from women are encouraged. At the Agency we value diversity, and we welcome people with disabilities. Whenever possible, we seek to accommodate individuals with disabilities by providing the necessary support at the workplace. The Human Resources Department can also provide assistance during the recruitment process.