Downstream Engineer

Vacancy in the Directorate of Earth Observation Programmes.

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.

This is a non-renewable post for a limited duration until 31 December 2026 and is classified A2-A4 on the Coordinated Organisations’ salary scale .

This opportunity is open for the specific needs of a National Project. Accordingly, the external candidate selected for this post will continue to be considered an external candidate for the purposes of any future applications to the Agency.

Location
ESRIN, Frascati, Italy 

Downstream Engineer in the IRIDE programme (the Earth Observation component of the Italian PNRR programme, to which ESA is providing technical assistance) in charge of the technical specification and follow-up of the services implementation.

The Downstream element scope includes the Payload Data Ground Segment, the Flight Operations Segment, the Marketplace and Cyber Italy (digital twin of Italy).

If selected for this position, you will report to the Downstream Manager in the IT PNRR Downstream Office, IT PNRR Programme, Earth Observation Projects Department, Directorate of Earth Observation Programmes.

Your duties will include:

• contribution to Downstream system design activities;
• contribution to the definition of the system operations concept;
• technical management of contracts for the implementation of downstream elements;
• contribution to the IRIDE system integration, validation and early operations activities;
• assisting the Downstream Manager in the management of the Downstream Segment activities;
• interfacing with other areas within the Agency, industry, the user community, external centres and/or agencies on all aspects related to your area of responsibility.

Knowledge of Ground Segments for Earth Observation missions

Experience of specification, development, validation of Ground Segments, in particular for Earth Observation Missions

Experience of GS operations, in particular for Earth Observation Missions

Experience of technical management and coordination

Knowledge of engineering implementation processes

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

A master’s degree in a relevant engineering subject is required for this post.

You should also:

• have a minimum of eight years’ experience in Ground Segment implementation and operations
• have a high level of self-motivation, autonomy and the ability to work effectively in an interdisciplinary team
• demonstrate flexibility in dealing with day-to-day operational
• show a strong inclination for teamwork

​Other information

For behavioural competencies expected from ESA staff in general, please refer to the ESA Competency Framework .

For further information please visit: Professionals , What we offer  and FAQ    

The working languages of the Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these is required. Knowledge of another Member State language would be an asset.   

The Agency may require applicants to undergo selection tests.

At the Agency we value diversity and we welcome people with disabilities. Whenever possible, we seek to accommodate individuals with disabilities by providing the necessary support at the workplace. The Human Resources Department can also provide assistance during the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss this further please contact us at [email protected] .

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Please note that applications are only considered from nationals of one of the following States: Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and Canada, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovakia and Slovenia.

In accordance with the European Space Agency’s security procedures and as part of the selection process, successful candidates will be required to undergo basic screening before appointment conducted by an external background screening service. 

Recruitment will normally be at the first grade in the band (A2); however, if the candidate selected has little or no experience, the position may be filled at A1 level.