Description

Optical System Engineer in the Optical Technologies Section, Ground Station Engineering Division, Ground Systems Engineering & Innovation Department, Directorate of Operations.

The Optical Technologies Section provides functional support to ESA projects and carries out technology research (R&D) in optics for ground applications and project management of subsequent operational technology introduction. The Section’s activities cover the development of novel optical ground stations and related optical systems for optical space debris / near Earth object observation, satellite and space-debris laser ranging and momentum transfer, optical (quantum-) communication and optical frequency and timing generation and distribution. 

The Optical Technologies Section is responsible for developing a broad range of technologies addressing optical ground systems, such as telescopes, adaptive optics, free-space laser transmitters, single-photon detectors, time-tagged receivers, high-rate data receivers and fully autonomous optical ground stations.

Duties

You will report to the Head of the Optical Technologies Section and will be responsible for the development and engineering activities relating to optical ground stations for surveillance and tracking applications, including optical telescope system design, optical subsystems and project management of operational technology introduction as well as for the following specific tasks:

• project and technical management of telescope and optical ground station developments, deployment with subsequent handover to operations, in the area of near earth objects and space debris observation in the Space Safety Programme;
• providing expert technical support and consultancy to ESA projects, programmes and general studies for the development of optical ground instrumentation throughout all project phases, including requirements definition and preparation of tender action documentation;
• participating in feasibility studies for optical ground instruments, project reviews and the evaluation of procurement proposals;
• identifying critical development problems and assisting in their resolution;
• contributing to the definition of technology development roadmaps 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;
• monitoring relevant scientific and technological trends and maintaining state-of-the-art expertise;
• contributing to the dissemination of the results of technology development activities and the transfer of knowledge within the Agency.

Technical competencies

Behavioural competencies

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

Education

A Master's degree in optical engineering, physics or another relevant domain is required for this post.

Additional requirements

In order to efficiently manage interdisciplinary teams, a basic knowledge of other engineering areas, such as automation, mechanical, electrical, thermal and materials engineering would be considered an asset.