Description

On-Board Data Handling and Data Processing Engineer in the On-Board Computer and Data Handling Section, Data Systems, Microelectronics and Component Technology Division, Electrical Department, Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality.

The On-Board Computer and Data Handling Section provides functional support to ESA projects and carries out technological research and development (R&D) in turnkey on-board hardware data handling solutions with an emphasis on: 

• platform and payload data handling architectures and their building blocks (equipment and units, modules and key components);
• units such as on-board computers, mass memories, remote terminals and instrument control units*;
• digital and analogue signal processing electronics for payload and platform functions;
• front-end acquisition and processing chain electronics*;
• on-board data transfer interfaces, buses and associated protocols (high and low speed);
• platform data handling functions related to security, data authentication, encryption and compression;
• use of microelectronics devices;
• implementation, inference, verification and validation of algorithms** on processing hardware platforms for space applications* in close collaboration with other discipline experts (software, microelectronics and applications engineers).

* except for RF payloads.
** including artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms.
 

Duties

If selected for the position, you will report to the Head of Section. Within the technical fields described above, your main tasks and responsibilities will include:

• providing expert technical support and consultancy on ESA projects, programmes and general studies in the field of platform and payload data handling and processing systems throughout all project phases;
• participating in feasibility studies, project reviews and evaluation of procurement proposals;
• identifying critical development problems and assisting in their resolution;
• contributing to the definition of technology development requirements and work plans for the Agency’s technology programmes;
• defining, initiating and managing R&D activities covering both long- and short-term needs;
• fostering new application areas for multidisciplinary activities, placing emphasis on innovative concepts, cutting-edge technologies and system architectures;
• conducting laboratory activities as required;
• monitoring applicable scientific and technological trends to maintain state-of-the-art expertise;
• contributing to the dissemination of the results of the activities performed and the transfer of knowledge across the Agency.

Your duties may also include supporting other activities within your field of competence.

Technical competencies

Behavioural competencies

Result Orientation　
Operational Efficiency　
Fostering Cooperation　
Relationship Management　
Continuous Improvement　
Forward Thinking

Education

A Master’s degree in electronics, electrical engineering, networks, telecommunications or a related field is required for this post.

Additional requirements

At least 10 years of professional experience in the:

• design, review, simulation and verification of end-to-end processing chains and data handling architectures;
• design, review, simulation, manufacturing and testing of platform and payload data handling and processing equipment, modules and boards (use of FPGA/processors/microcontrollers, single-point-failure-free circuitry, failure containment techniques and use of Rad-Hard components/COTS with radiation mitigation techniques).

Knowledge in the following fields would be considered an asset:

• Design of data handling and processing electrical ground support equipment;
• Implementation, inference, training, verification and validation of machine learning algorithms on hardware platforms (for space or terrestrial applications);
• Laboratory experience;
• Conference and workshop technical and organisational committees.