EO Future Missions Optical Payload and Performance Engineer

We are the European Space Agency (ESA), a leading organization in space exploration and Earth observation. Our mission is to develop innovative space technologies and missions that advance scientific understanding and support societal needs. We are excited to offer a position within our Earth Observation Programmes, specifically focusing on optical payload systems for future missions.

The role of EO Future Missions Optical Payload and Performance Engineer is a key position within our Optical Instruments Section, Future Missions and Instruments Division. Reporting directly to the Head of the Optical Instruments Section, you will be responsible for the end-to-end definition, engineering, technology breadboarding, and pre-development of optical payload systems. These systems are crucial for both research missions, such as Earth Explorers, Missions of Opportunity, and Scout missions, as well as operational missions like Copernicus and meteorology. Your work will involve handling EO multispectral imagers, imaging spectrometers, Fourier-Transform spectrometers, and active laser payloads that cover the full wavelength range from ultraviolet to far infrared.

In this role, you will be involved in the study and pre-development phases of one or several payloads. You will be appointed as the responsible person for optical instruments during the preparation of EO future missions in Phase 0 or Phase A. Your responsibilities include identifying and investigating new Earth observation principles, techniques, and technologies in collaboration with various departments and external research groups. You will also maintain knowledge of current technology status and instrument development programs both within ESA and globally, including commercial initiatives under NewSpace.

Your tasks will involve defining and assessing the performance and technological readiness of new EO optical payload systems, managing industrial contracts for study and risk-retirement activities, and coordinating pre-development activities with project teams. You will support the evaluation and preparation of missions, contribute to technical and scientific dossiers, and develop models and tools to assess new instrument concepts.

Candidates should have a PhD or master’s degree in engineering or physics, with at least seven years of relevant experience in EO optical instruments. Experience in spaceborne optical instruments, performance modeling, and working within team or project environments is essential. Knowledge of optical remote sensing techniques and Earth observation user needs is required. Additional experience with active optical or thermal infrared instruments is considered an asset.

ESA is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusiveness, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, ethnicity, or disability. The position is based in Noordwijk, Netherlands, and may involve collaboration with various international teams. The working languages are English and French, with proficiency in one being necessary.

Join us to contribute to cutting-edge Earth observation missions that help monitor our planet and support global scientific and societal needs. For more information or to apply, please contact our Human Resources Department at [email removed - click apply for more details].