About this job

ESa is looking for an On-Board Data Processing Engineer.
ESA is an equal opportunity employer, committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment. For this purpose, we welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics. Applications from women are encouraged.
 
Description
On-Board Data Processing Engineer in the On-Board Computer & Data Handling Section, Data Systems, Microelectronics & Component Technology Division, Electrical Department, Directorate of Technology, Engineering & Quality.
The On-Board Computer & Data Handling Section provides functional support to ESA projects and carries out technological research (R&D) concerning turn-key on-board HW data systems solutions with an emphasis on:

• platform and payload data handling architectures and their building blocks (equipment/units, modules and key components);
• units such as on-board computers, mass memories, remote terminals, instrument control units*;
• digital and analogue signal processing electronics for payload*/platform functions;
  front-end acquisition and processing chain electronics*;
• on-board data transfer interfaces, buses and associated protocols (high and low speed);
• platform data handling functions related to security, data authentication, encryption, compression;
• use of microelectronics devices;
• Implementation, inference, verification and validation of algorithms** on processing HW platforms for space applications*;

*except for RF payloads.
** including artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms

Responsibilities

• providing expert technical support and consultancy to ESA projects, programmes and studies in the field of on-board processing (implementation, inference, verification and validation of algorithms** on HW platforms) in Data Handling Systems* throughout all project phases;
• participating in feasibility studies, project reviews and 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 HW-related data processing R&D activities* covering both long- and short-term needs with a special focus on the domain of on-board processing algorithms** on on-board HW platforms for space applications;
• developing new application areas in the domain of on-board artificial intelligence and machine learning for multidisciplinary activities, placing emphasis on innovative concepts, cutting-edge technologies, and their implementation on HW platforms within a data handling system architecture*.
• laboratory activities as required;
• monitoring applicable scientific and technological trends and maintaining state-of-the-art expertise;
• contributing to the dissemination of the results of the activities performed and the transfer of knowledge across the Agency.

*except for RF payloads
** including Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning algorithms

Profile

Technical competencies
General background and specific experience in the technical domains covered by the position
Hands-on hardware experience
Understanding of related technologies, R&D trends and the industrial landscape
Experience in the coordination and preparation of procurement activities for technology development (statements of work, proposal evaluation, etc)
Experience in the preparation of procurement activities for technology development and innovation (statements of work, proposal evaluation, etc)
Education
A Master’s degree in electronics engineering, signal processing or a related field for this position is required.
Additional requirements
Knowledge in the following fields will be considered as assets:

• familiarity with spacecraft systems
• development of datasets for the verification and validation of HW on-board processing applications
• component (including COTS) benchmarking for on-board processing
• training, implementation, inference, verification and validation of machine learning algorithms on HW platforms (for space or terrestrial applications)
• machine learning experience (HW and algorithms)

For a complete job description, click on “apply”.

The closing date for applications is 30 June 2021.

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 contact.human.resources@esa.int.
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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 and Slovenia.
We offer
The European Space Agency (ESA) is an equal opportunities employer that offers competitive salaries exempt from national income tax and excellent employment conditions, such as allowances for expatriates and relocation support. For more information: http://www.esa.int/About_Us/Careers_at_ESA
About us
We are the European Space Agency. Our mission is the peaceful exploration and use of space for the benefit of everyone. We watch over Earth, develop and launch inspiring and unique space projects, train astronauts and push the boundaries of science and technology, seeking answers to the big questions about the Universe. We are a family of scientists, engineers and business professionals from all over Europe working together in a diverse and multinational environment. We are dedicated to united space in Europe and united Europe in space. Learn more: http://www.esa.int/