Lead 5G/6G NTN Mission Engineer (D2D Networks)

ESA; Noordwijk; On-site; EUR 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

ESA's D2D Project seeks a Network Lead Mission Engineer to drive the development and validation of 5G/6G NTN systems for Direct-to-Device partnerships. You will coordinate with satellite operators, prime contractors and internal teams to ensure end-to-end system integrity within schedule and cost constraints.

You will oversee the design, validation, and integration of 5G/6G network elements across space and ground segments, including software, hardware and testbeds, to deliver mission-ready

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant engineering discipline with 4 years of experience.
• Experience in cross-functional teams and driving innovation.

Responsibilities

• Define, procure, design, develop and validate the 5G/6G NTN system for D2D projects.
• Ensure system performance aligns with requirements across space, ground and user segments.
• Lead end-to-end integration of NTN payloads and ground networks including O-RAN/NTN architectures.
• Coordinate reviews and interface with industrial partners and operators.
• Monitor schedule, risks and costs; report to ESA management.

Skills

SatCom systems

5G/6G telecom networks

end-to-end validation

model-based system engineering

industrial procurement

Education

Master's degree in engineering

Bachelor's degree + 4 years experience

Job description

ESA's D2D Project seeks a Network Lead Mission Engineer to drive the development and validation of 5G/6G NTN systems for Direct-to-Device partnerships. You will coordinate with satellite operators, prime contractors and internal teams to ensure end-to-end system integrity within schedule and cost constraints.

You will oversee the design, validation, and integration of 5G/6G network elements across space and ground segments, including software, hardware and testbeds, to deliver mission-ready