Optical Payload Engineer

Optical Payload Engineer

Job

Requisition

Date Posted: 11 June 2026

Closing Date: 2 July 2026 23:59 CET/CEST

Type of Appointment:
Fixed‑Term

Workplace:
Noordwijk, NL (ESTEC, Netherlands)

Description
Optical Payload Engineer in the Optics Section within the Optics, Robotics and Life Sciences Division, Mechanical Department, Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality.

The Optics Section supports ESA projects and conducts R&D in optics for space applications, including novel optical systems such as spectroradiometric imaging instruments, interferometers, and X‑ray telescope technologies.

Duties

Provide technical expertise and consultancy to ESA projects and programmes for the development of optical space payloads throughout all project phases.

Participate in feasibility studies, project reviews and evaluation of procurement proposals for optical payloads.

Identify critical development problems and assist in their resolution.

Contribute to the definition of technology development plans for the Agency’s technology programmes in optical payloads.

Define, initiate and manage R&D activities covering both long‑ and short‑term needs.

Foster new application areas for multidisciplinary activities, emphasizing innovative concepts, cutting‑edge technologies and system architectures.

Contribute to laboratory activities related to the testing and characterisation of optical components and instrumentation.

Monitor relevant scientific and technological trends to maintain state‑of‑the‑art expertise.

Contribute to the dissemination of technology development results and transfer of knowledge within the Agency.

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

Technical Competencies

General background and specific experience in the technical domains covered by the position.

Experience with optical design, optical performance and generic data analysis using associated software tools.

Knowledge of relevant technologies for design, manufacturing and testing of optical payloads.

Knowledge of R&D trends and the industrial landscape in optical payloads.

Hands‑on experience in assembly, integration and testing/verification of optical instruments.

Experience with optical payload laboratories and testing.

Experience in managing and monitoring industrial activities, including participation in reviews.

Behavioural Competencies

Result Orientation

Operational Efficiency

Fostering Cooperation

Relationship Management

Continuous Improvement

Forward Thinking

Education
A master’s degree in applied optics, optical engineering or physics is required.

Additional Requirements

Experience in optical component manufacturing technologies and knowledge of state‑of‑the‑art performance.

The ability to perform conceptual and detailed optical design and performance analysis of optical instrumentation using appropriate software tools.

Knowledge of test and verification methods for optical components and instrumentation.

Familiarity with ESA’s environment, processes, programmes and standards would be an asset.

Basic knowledge of other engineering areas (such as mechanical, thermal or materials) would be considered an asset.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusiveness
ESA is an equal opportunity employer, committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics. Whenever possible, we seek to accommodate individuals with disabilities by providing the necessary support at the workplace.

Important Information and Disclaimer
Recruitment will be within the advertised grade band (A2–A4). However, if the selected candidate has less than four years of relevant professional experience after completing the master’s degree, the position may be filled at A1 level.

Applicants must be eligible to access information, technology and hardware subject to European or US export control and sanctions regulations and eligible to acquire the required security clearance.

During the recruitment process, the Agency may request applicants to undergo selection tests. Successful…