Optoelectronics Engineer

Location
ESTEC, Noordwijk, Netherlands  

Optoelectronics Engineer in the Optoelectronics Section, Mechatronics and Optics Division, Mechanical Department, Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality.

The Optoelectronics Section provides functional support to ESA projects and carries out technological research and development (R&D) in the field of optoelectronic device technologies and applications. In particular, the Optoelectronics Section deals with the specification, development and characterisation of photonic component subsystems and active optical instruments, such as detectors and lasers operating in the UV to FIR wavelength ranges, fibre-optic sensors, lidars, optical communication systems and quantum technologies.

The Section is staffed with around 20 engineers supporting all ESA projects and offers a unique opportunity to contribute on the challenges related to optoelectronic technologies needed for ESA missions, spacecraft, instruments and equipment.

Reporting to the Head of Section and within the technical fields described above, your main tasks and responsibilities will include:

• providing technical expertise and consultancy to ESA projects, programmes and general studies in the fields of photo-detectors, focal plane instrumentation development and testing techniques, throughout all project phases;
• participating in feasibility studies, project reviews and the 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 an emphasis on innovative concepts, cutting-edge technologies and system architectures;
• participating in laboratory activities as required;
• monitoring applicable scientific and technological trends and maintaining state-of-the-art expertise;
• disseminating the results of the activities performed and actively contributing to the transfer of knowledge across the Agency.

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

General background and experience in the technical domains covered by the position, i.e. electrical engineering or semiconductor physics

Hands-on hardware experience

Understanding of related technologies, R&D trends and the industrial landscape

Project support experience in a relevant domain

Experience with laboratory activities and field testing of relevant technical equipment

Experience in the coordination and preparation of procurement activities for technology development (statements of work, proposal evaluation, etc)

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

A master’s in optoelectronic engineering is required. Preference will be given to applicants with a PhD.

Solid experience in the design, definition, development and testing of photonic devices and detector imaging systems, ideally with visible, infrared and x-ray detectors and detection chains including one or more of the following detector types: CCD, CMOS, MCT and InGaAs. 

• Theoretical and hands-on experience in detector front-end electronics design and development would be desirable.
• Knowledge of the environmental testing of space hardware would be considered an asset.
• Experience in providing Earth Observation and Science missions with support in the field of detectors at system level, as well as in following critical R&D activities tailored to the specific needs of the mission would be considered a strong asset.
  

Diversity, Equity and Inclusiveness 
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.

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 via email at [email protected] .

Important Information and Disclaimer
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.

Applicants must be eligible to access technology and hardware which is subject to European and US export control regulations & security clearance by their national security administrations.

During the recruitment process, the Agency may request applicants to undergo selection tests. Additionally, successful candidates will need to undergo basic screening before appointment, which will be conducted by an external background screening service, in compliance with the European Space Agency's security procedures.

Note that ESA is in the process of transitioning to a Matrix setup, which could lead to organisational changes affecting this position.

The information published on ESA’s careers website regarding working conditions is correct at the time of publication. It is not intended to be exhaustive and may not address all questions you would have. 

Nationality and Languages 
Please note that applications can only be 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. 

When short-listing for an interview, priority will first be given to internal candidates.

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.