Description

Optoelectronics Engineer in the Optoelectronics Section, Mechatronics and Optics Division, Mechanical Department, Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality.

The Optoelectronics Section provides functional support to ESA projects and carries out technological research and development (R&D) in the field of optoelectronic device technologies and applications. In particular, the Optoelectronics Section deals with the specification, development and characterisation of photonic component subsystems and active optical instruments, such as detectors and lasers operating in the UV to FIR wavelength ranges, fibre-optic sensors, lidars, optical communication systems and quantum technologies.

The Section is staffed with around 20 engineers supporting all ESA projects and offers a unique opportunity to contribute on the challenges related to optoelectronic technologies needed for ESA missions, spacecraft, instruments and equipment.
 

Duties

Reporting to the Head of Section and within the technical fields described above, your main tasks and responsibilities will include:

• providing technical expertise and consultancy to ESA projects, programmes and general studies in the fields of photo-detectors, focal plane instrumentation development and testing techniques, throughout all project phases;
• participating in feasibility studies, project reviews and the 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 R&D activities covering both long- and short-term needs;
• fostering new application areas for multidisciplinary activities, placing an emphasis on innovative concepts, cutting-edge technologies and system architectures;
• participating in laboratory activities as required;
• monitoring applicable scientific and technological trends and maintaining state-of-the-art expertise;
• disseminating the results of the activities performed and actively contributing to the transfer of knowledge across the Agency.

Your duties may also include performing other activities within your field of competence.

Technical competencies

Behavioural competencies

Result Orientation
Operational Efficiency
Fostering Cooperation
Relationship Management
Continuous Improvement
Forward Thinking

Education

A master’s in optoelectronic engineering is required. Preference will be given to applicants with a PhD.

Additional requirements

Solid experience in the design, definition, development and testing of photonic devices and detector imaging systems, ideally with visible, infrared and x-ray detectors and detection chains including one or more of the following detector types: CCD, CMOS, MCT and InGaAs. 

• Theoretical and hands-on experience in detector front-end electronics design and development would be desirable.
• Knowledge of the environmental testing of space hardware would be considered an asset.
• Experience in providing Earth Observation and Science missions with support in the field of detectors at system level, as well as in following critical R&D activities tailored to the specific needs of the mission would be considered a strong asset.