Job Description

R&D Engineer for PNT Space Segment, security and PRS

Job Requisition ID: 19546

Date Posted: 28 May 2025

Closing Date: 18 June 2025 23:59 CET/CEST

Publication: Internal & External

Type of Contract: Permanent

Directorate: Navigation

Workplace:

Noordwijk, NL

Grade Band: A2 - A4

Location
ESTEC, Noordwijk, Netherlands

Description

R&D Engineer for PNT Space Segment, Security and PRS in the GNSS Evolution Upstream R&D Implementation Office of the Galileo and EGNOS Evolution Division, Galileo and EGNOS Programme Department, Navigation Directorate.

The Galileo and EGNOS Evolution Division is responsible for defining, consolidating and implementing innovative technology as well as supporting research and development for the next generations of operational systems for the European Union.

You will directly contribute to defining and shaping the future of European satellite navigation operational systems (e.g. EGNOS, Galileo, infrastructure of the EU Space Programme contributing to PNT, etc.), in particular the systems and technologies relating to the PNT space segment, security, signal and PRS, with the definition and implementation of a comprehensive and impactful programme of research and development, involving cutting-edge technologies and concepts (such as the evolution of EGNSS PRS technologies, advanced system and security architectures, secure PNT features, protection of space assets and RFI monitoring over multiple orbits of the EU Space Programme, etc.).

Duties

Under the supervision of the Head of the GNSS Evolution Upstream R&D Implementation Office, your tasks and responsibilities will include:

defining, managing and supporting, including technical monitoring and reporting, of GNSS evolution R&D activities arranged under Horizon Europe upstream GNSS R&D programmes, in coordination with:
the Galileo System and EGNOS Offices (system, space segment, ground segment and security) for system aspects and the preparation of the qualification and integration of new technologies developed under the aforementioned R&D programmes;
the programmes and teams in the Directorate supporting the preparation of future European PNT infrastructure and its in-orbit demonstrations;
experts from the Directorate of Technology, Engineering and Quality.
supporting the identification and definition of novel R&D activities and related technologies for global and regional satellite navigation systems, in particular in the areas of future architectures, space segment, security and PRS capabilities for EGNSS/EU PNT systems, synergies between satellite navigation and governmental satellite communications, apportionment of mission and system drivers among segments (e.g. space, ground, user, etc.), including:
a survey of the relevant state-of-the-art, including the technical status and plans of other GNSS/RNSS constellations and Navigation Innovative Technologies in terms of technology development;
the coordination of relevant technology R&D activities as run in other ESA programmes, in related activities at European Commission level and in third-party programmes (such as national programmes or other international institutions);
the formulation of technological evolution roadmaps for eventual implementation.

Technical competencies

Solid experience (several years) in the field of space technologies and systems, preferably relating to one or more of the following: GNSS, security-driven space segment systems and technologies (e.g. governmental), and PNT principles, systems and related technologies;

Solid experience (several years) in industrial procurement and development, as well as in conducting reviews in relation to operational space systems;

Experience in the preparation of procurement activities for technology development and innovation (statements of work, proposal evaluation, etc.) in relation to one or more of the following: space segment technologies, GNSS or satcom signals, and/or security-related systems and technologies (authentication, cryptography, system concept, user equipment, payload, etc.);

Knowledge of the space-related industrial landscape and ability to define technology development roadmaps identifying future trends in technology requirements.

Behavioural competencies

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

For more information, please refer to ESA Core Behavioural Competencies guidebook

Education

A master's degree in a scientific or engineering discipline is required.

Additional requirements

You should have acquired relevant experience in the areas identified for the vacancy, in particular in PRS, authentication/cryptography and/or secure satcom systems, for activities ranging from early R&D to development (such as in the field of operational satellite systems or user equipment);
A well-developed system view and good knowledge of the technologies appropriate for hybrid PNT solutions and/or satellite communication would be major assets;
Experience in international agencies and programmes would be an asset;
You are expected to have good analytical, organisational and reporting skills, a proactive attitude to problem-solving and an interest in innovative technologies. You should demonstrate responsible decision-making and be able to work and communicate effectively in a team setting.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusiveness
ESA is an equal opportunity employer, committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment. We therefore welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics. Applications from women are encouraged.

At the Agency we value diversity, and we welcome people with disabilities. Whenever possible, we seek to accommodate individuals with disabilities by providing the necessary support at the workplace. The Human Resources Department can also provide assistance during the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss this further, please contact us via email at contact.human.resources@esa.int.

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

Applicants must be eligible to access information, technology, and hardware which is subject to European or US export control and sanctions regulations & eligible to acquire the security clearance by their national security administrations.

During the recruitment process, the Agency may request applicants to undergo selection tests. Additionally, successful candidates will need to undergo basic screening before appointment, which will be conducted by an external background screening service, in compliance with the European Space Agency's security procedures.

Note that ESA is in the process of transitioning to a Matrix setup, which could lead to organisational changes affecting this position.

The information published on ESA’s careers website regarding working conditions is correct at the time of publication. It is not intended to be exhaustive and may not address all questions you would have.

Nationality and Languages
Please note that applications are only considered from nationals of one of the following States: Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Latvia, Lithuania and Slovakia.

According to the ESA Convention, the recruitment of staff must take into account an adequate distribution of posts among nationals of the ESA Member States*. When short-listing for an interview, priority will first be given to internal candidates and secondly to external candidates from under-represented Member States*.

The working languages of the Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these is required. Knowledge of another Member State language would be an asset.

*Member States, Associate Members or Cooperating States.