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Join the European Space Agency as a Lead Engineer and contribute to the thrilling Vega and Space Rider programs.
Overview
Salary
No salary declared 😔
Location
Frascati, Italy
Expires
Expires at anytime
Organisation summary
Become part of the European Space Agency (ESA), a major player in the arena of space exploration and transportation. Working for ESA means contributing to exciting missions and advanced technologies, all while helping to push the boundaries of our understanding of space.
Role Summary
- End-to-end responsibility for all engineering activities within the mechanical, pyrotechnics, and thermal domains across Vega and Space Rider programmes.
- Manage design, procurement, development, validation, and manufacturing of subsystem components throughout the project lifecycle.
- Ensure technical coherence, compliance with applicable standards, and effective coordination of engineering activities.
Role Requirements
- Must possess a Master’s degree in a relevant engineering field and at least 10 years of professional experience.
- Expertise in launch system engineering and competence in mechanical/structural and thermal analyses.
- Experience in Assembly, Integration, Test, and Verification (AIT/AIV) activities is important.
- Familiarity with the Vega family or similar European space transportation programmes is essential.
Application Process Details
- Apply by the closing date of May 7, 2026.
- Ensure eligibility for access to European or US export-controlled information.
The European Space Agency (ESA) is seeking a VEGA and Space Rider Mechanical, Thermal, and Pyro Lead Engineer to join our Flight Programme Department within the Directorate of Space Transportation. This position is based at ESRIN in Frascati, Italy.
The role: As the Lead Engineer, you will have end-to-end responsibility for all engineering activities within the mechanical, pyrotechnics, and thermal domains across the Vega and Space Rider programmes. You will manage the design, procurement, development, validation, and manufacturing of subsystem components throughout the project lifecycle, particularly during the Vega C exploitation phase. Your duties will include ensuring technical coherence, compliance with applicable standards, and effective coordination of engineering activities.
Job requirements: The ideal candidate will have a master's degree in a relevant engineering field and at least 10 years of relevant professional experience. You should have proven launch system engineering expertise, strong competence in mechanical/structural and thermal analyses, and solid experience in Assembly, Integration, Test, and Verification (AIT/AIV) activities. Familiarity with the Vega family or comparable European space transportation programmes is essential.
Benefits: ESA offers a dynamic and multicultural work environment, with a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusiveness. We provide competitive compensation and benefits, and support professional development.
Applications details: Interested candidates should apply by the closing date of May 7, 2026. Please ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for access to European or US export-controlled information.
