Optoelectronics Engineer

Optoelectronics Engineer in the Optoelectronics Section, Optics, Robotics and Life Sciences Division, Mechanical Department, Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality.
Location
ESTEC, Noordwijk, Netherlands
Type of appointment:  4 years, extendable to indefinite
Description  The Optoelectronics Section provides functional support to ESA projects and carries out technological research (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 25 engineers supporting all ESA projects and offers a unique opportunity to contribute on the challenges relating to optoelectronic technologies required 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 expert technical support and consultancy to ESA projects, programmes and general studies involving optical atomic clocks, optical frequency combs, lasers and integrated photonic technologies for space and related technologies 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 emphasis on innovative concepts, cutting-edge technologies and system architectures;
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.
Your duties may also include supporting other activities within your field of competence.
Technical competencies   General background and specific experience in the technical domains covered by the position
Optical atomic clocks, including related subsystems, such as frequency combs, ultra-stable lasers, cavities, metrology and T&F distribution
Related quantum and photonics technologies, such as atom/ion trapping and cooling, photonic integrated circuits and fibre optics

Experience with laboratory and field testing of relevant technical equipment and hands‑on hardware experience
Understanding of related technologies, R&D trends and industrial landscape
Project support experience in a relevant domain
Experience in the coordination and preparation of procurement activities for technology development and innovation, such as statements of work and proposal evaluation
Behavioural competencies   Result Orientation
Operational Efficiency
Fostering Cooperation
Relationship Management
Continuous Improvement
Forward Thinking
Education and professional experience  A master’s degree in physics, photonics, optoelectronics, optical engineering or a related discipline is required for this post, together with at least four years of relevant professional experience.
Additional requirements  Solid experience in the design, definition, development and testing of complex optoelectronics systems.
The following will be considered assets:
Knowledge of environmental testing of space…