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Exciting opportunity to shape the future of space exploration as an Optical Engineer at ESA
Overview
Salary No salary declared 😔
Location Noordwijk, NL
Expires Expires at anytime
Organisation summary
Join the European Space Agency (ESA), a world-leading organisation dedicated to the exploration of space. ESA's Optics Section undertakes compelling research and provides functional input to ESA's projects. Their activities encompass the innovation of optical systems operating across multiple spectrums, and the opportunity to work on ground-breaking projects.
Role Summary
- Provide technical expertise in the development of optical space instrumentation
- Engage in feasibility studies for optical instruments
- Contribute to technology development plans
- Manage R&D activities for both long-term and short-term needs
Role Requirements
- Master's degree in optical engineering or physics required
- Experience with optical component manufacturing necessary
- Proficiency in optical design and performance analysis
- Knowledge of optical components’ test and verification methods essential
- Familiarity with ESA’s environment, processes, programmes and standards would be an asset
- Basic knowledge of other engineering areas (such as mechanical, thermal or materials) would be considered an asset
Application Process Details
ESA is committed to diversity and inclusivity in the workforce. Candidates of all genders, sexual orientation, ethnicity, beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics are warmly welcome to apply. Applications from women are encouraged.
The Optical Engineer will be part of the Optics Section, Optics, Robotics and Life Sciences Division, Mechanical Department, Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality. The Optics Section provides functional support to ESA projects and carries out technology research and development (R&D) in optics for space applications. The Optics Section’s activities cover the development of novel optical systems, such as spectro-radiometric imaging instruments, operating from the UV to the infrared spectral range, and interferometers, including the relevant optical ground support equipment.
The Optical Engineer will be responsible for providing technical expertise and consultancy to ESA projects, programmes and general studies for the development of optical space instrumentation throughout all project phases. The role includes participating in feasibility studies for optical instruments, project reviews and the evaluation of procurement proposals. The Optical Engineer will also contribute to the definition of technology development plans for the Agency’s technology programmes and manage R&D activities covering both long- and short-term needs.
The successful candidate will have a master's degree in optical engineering or physics. Experience in optical component manufacturing technologies, the associated challenges and knowledge of state-of-the art performances is required. Ability to perform conceptual and detailed optical design and performance analysis of optical instrumentation using appropriate software tools is also necessary. Knowledge of test and verification methods for optical components and optical instrumentation is essential. Familiarity with the ESA’s environment, processes, programmes and standards would be an asset. Basic knowledge of other engineering areas (such as mechanical, thermal or materials) would be considered an asset.
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.
