Optical Payload Engineer

Optical Payload Engineer
Job

Requisition

Date Posted: 11 June 2026

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

Publication:
Internal & External

Type of Appointment:
Fixed-Term

Directorate:
Technology, Engineering and Quality

Workplace:
Noordwijk, NL

Grade Band: A2 - A4

This is a  fixed-term appointment  with an initial duration of 4 years. Depending upon performance and organisational needs, the appointment may be extended up to a possible maximum duration of 8 years.

Location
ESTEC, Noordwijk, Netherlands

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

The Optics Section provides functional support to ESA projects and carries out technology research and development (R&D) in optics for space applications. The Section’s activities cover the development of novel optical systems, such as spectroradiometric imaging instruments operating from the UV to the infrared spectral range, and interferometers, including the related optical ground support equipment. The Section is responsible for developing a broad range of technologies addressing optical components and related processes, such as for polarize rs, gratings, coatings, lenses, mirrors and the metrology of optical components.

Significant work is also carried out on the development of technologies for the next generation of X‑ray space telescopes.

Duties

Providing technical expertise and consultancy to ESA projects, programmes and general studies for the development of optical space payloads and instrumentation throughout all project phases;

Participating in feasibility studies for optical payloads, related project reviews and the evaluation of procurement proposals;

Identifying critical development problems and assisting in their resolution;

Contributing to the definition of technology development plans for the Agency’s technology programmes in the area of optical payloads;

Defining, initiating and managing R&D activities covering both long‑ and short‑term needs;

Fostering new application areas for multidisciplinary activities, placing emphasis on innovative concepts, cutting‑edge technologies and system architectures;

Contributing to laboratory activities related to the testing and characterisation of optical components and instrumentation;

Monitoring relevant scientific and technological trends and maintaining state‑of‑the‑art expertise;

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

Your duties may also include performing 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 and the associated software tools;

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

Knowledge of R&D trends and the industrial landscape in the field of 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 for this post.

Additional Requirements

Experience in optical component manufacturing technologies, the associated challenges 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 optical 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…