About this job

Thales Alenia Space in the UK is currently looking for an AOCS architect, based in Harwell.
Joining our teams you will be at the heart of most advanced technologies in the field of spacecraft design and particularly the Attitude and Orbit Control System (AOCS).
The AOCS architect selected for this position will have the opportunity to contribute to the design and/or development of some of the most complex space missions and systems, in earth orbit and beyond.

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities at early design phases:

• Architecture of the Attitude and Orbit Control System (AOCS)
• Lead and supervise performance analysis
• Lead deliverables preparation and internal reviews
• Participate to customer reviews and interface with counterparts technical experts
• Coordinate project team and mentor team members when relevant
• Specification of the subsystem and units for development phases
• Define test and verification plan
• Prepare Work Package Description, Schedule and Costing for development phases

Key responsibilities at development phases:

• Consolidation of trade-off, design and performance budgets
• Creation of detailed dynamics models and design of GNC functions
• Review and approbation of the AOCS units and the AOCS GSEs specifications
• Detailed analysis of Orbit Control Operations
• Final tuning of AOCS control laws
• Sensitivity and Robustness simulations
• AOCS Software Specification
• Specify AIT requirements
• Contribution to Flight Operations Manual
• Contribution to Flight Procedures design
• Contribution to the spacecraft avionics functional validation
• Definition of the In-Orbit Commissioning Plan for AOCS
• Contribution to the spacecraft operations, including LEOP (Launch and Early Operations)

Profile

Required Qualification, Experience and Skills:

• Engineering degree compatible with the requirements of the position
• 5+ years of experience in AOCS Engineer on complex projects
• A demonstrable positive performance record
• Good knowledge of AOCS units/equipment
• Experience with spacecraft avionics development and validation
• Experience contributing to customer reviews
• Experience managing external partners and suppliers

The following experience and attributes are also desirable for this position:

• Experience leading an engineering team

In line with Thales’ Baseline Security requirements, candidates will be asked to provide evidence of identity, eligibility to work in the UK and employment and/or education history for up to three years. Some vacancies may require full Security Clearance which can require further evidence to be provided. For further details of the evidence required to apply for Baseline and Security Clearance please refer to the Defence Business Services National Security Vetting (DBS NSV) Agency.