Optical Payload Engineer, Emerging Sensing for EO Futures

European Space Agency - ESA; Noordwijk; On-site; EUR 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

European Space Agency in Noordwijk seeks an Optical Payload Engineer for Emerging Sensing Technologies to drive end-to-end development of innovative EO payloads. You will integrate quantum, photonic and miniaturised sensors into future mission concepts with cross-divisional collaboration.

The role includes RTD coordination, performance modeling, and leading instrument readiness for Phase 0/Phase A, shaping technology roadmaps and mission concepts.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in engineering or physics with relevant experience.
• Experience in optical sensing technologies and payload development.
• Ability to work in multidisciplinary teams on EO missions.

Responsibilities

• Define and assess performance and readiness of emerging sensing payloads.
• Coordinate industrial contracts for study and risk retirement.
• Lead instrument pre-development activities and collaboration with project teams.
• Contribute to technology roadmaps and EO Quantum Sensing strategy.

Skills

Spaceborne optical instruments

Optical instrument development

Emerging sensing technologies

Innovation processes

Earth observation requirements

Education

Master's degree in engineering or physics

Tools

Performance analysis tools

Job description

European Space Agency in Noordwijk seeks an Optical Payload Engineer for Emerging Sensing Technologies to drive end-to-end development of innovative EO payloads. You will integrate quantum, photonic and miniaturised sensors into future mission concepts with cross-divisional collaboration.

The role includes RTD coordination, performance modeling, and leading instrument readiness for Phase 0/Phase A, shaping technology roadmaps and mission concepts.