About this job

Serco is a leading Space Services Provider with thousands of skilled resources that has supported over 50 space missions on behalf of more than 10 Space or Government agencies around the globe, including the ESA and NASA. Serco offers space capability across the full space lifecycle from satellite testing to Launch services, LEOP to spacecraft operations, space surveillance to data management, and supporting downstream application development. With over 55 years history in the space sector Serco is well placed to contribute to National strategies and New Space ventures who want to scale their businesses/organizations with skilled talent.

We are looking for a dynamic Optical Instrument and Payload Engineer to join our team at the esteemed ESA-ESTEC site in the Netherlands. Step into a remarkable role that grants you access to one of the globe’s highly coveted space agencies.

Responsibilities

• Definition, design, establishment of performance budgets and performance analysis of optical test set-ups.
• Independent execution of optical tests in the optics laboratory on components and systems related to straylight and spectro-radiometric performance.
• Provision of expert technical support to ESA projects and studies for the development of optical space instrumentation throughout all project phases.
• Support the development of optical technologies and subsystems with emphasis on testing, verification and calibration.
• Definition and follow-up of instrument on-ground test and calibration activities and of in-orbit commissioning- contribution to design/optical related performance improvement, in particular, by identifying critical development problems and assisting in their resolution.
• Participation to project reviews.
• Evaluation of procurement proposals.

Profile

• Master’s Degree or PhD in Physics or Optical Engineering.
• At least 4 years of relevant experience in similar roles.
• Project and/or industrial experience in the design, engineering and testing of various types of optical instrumentation.
• Good working knowledge of ZEMAX and/or CODE V (and preferably also ASAP).
• Solid experience in precision optical measurements at system, sub-assembly and component level.
• Experience in space project work, and of operations in a cleanroom environment.
• Knowledge and or experience in the use and application of the ISO 9000 series or ISO 17025 standards for quality management of test laboratories.
• Hands-on experience in optical manufacturing techniques, alignment and tolerancing.
• Comfortable with working in a diverse and multinational team environment.
• Good technical judgement, analytical and excellent verbal and written communication skills, in the English language.
• Knowledge of another EU member state language is an asset.
• Candidates must be eligible to work in the EU.

DE&I:

Within Serco we believe there is a place here for everyone. Diversity & Inclusion at Serco is based on a culture where every voice is heard, and every employee feels valued. Working together as one team, we can enhance the experience of our people and teams, improve the value of our solutions to better serve the missions of our customers, and make a difference in our world. We are enthusiastic and passionate about our work which is infectious. We allow our employees to take responsibility for their work and promote a positive working culture.

What we offer:

• Competitive Salary.
• Comprehensive package of benefits offered by the company.
• Assistance with relocation can be provided, details available upon request.
• Engaging company events to foster team spirit.
• Reimbursement of public transport expenses.
• Access to a variety of sports and recreational activities at ESTEC Escape Recreation Centre.
• Company contribution towards a pension scheme.