Space Debris System and Mitigation Engineer

Space Debris System and Mitigation Engineer

Fixed‑term appointment with an initial duration of 4 years, up to a maximum of 8 years.

The position is located at ESOC in Darmstadt, Germany, with a resident assignment to either ESTEC in The Netherlands or ESAC in Spain.

Description

The Space Debris Office is ESA’s focal point for space debris matters and related space‑traffic services.

It supports ESA missions across all phases—from design to operation and disposal—through technology development programmes, standard setting, and active engagement with stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Support projects and missions in all phases in implementing space debris mitigation requirements and contribute to the evolution of that support.
• Define, implement, and lead the procurement of industrial services supporting space debris mitigation.
• Contribute to the development of international space debris mitigation standards and related compliance verification approaches.
• Support the specification, procurement, and management of debris‑related technology development and demonstration activities at all TRLs under ESA’s Space Safety Programme.
• Proactively interface with internal and external stakeholders.
• Support the system and/or instrument definition, manufacturing, and operational phase of space segments related to space debris missions.
• Support the maintenance and further upgrading of space debris software and databases.
• Support the Office’s involvement in the Requesting Party Activities (RPA).
• Support and manage outreach and training activities addressing space debris.
• Participate in operational support activities.
• Manage quality assurance tasks in the area of responsibility.
• Technical Competencies
• System engineering methods for space‑related projects, including ECSS and ESSB standards.
• Space debris mitigation and space traffic management approaches, with hands‑on experience across all mission phases.
• Management of industrial activities through review processes, KPIs, and service level agreements.
• Definition, procurement, and management of service contracts.
• Requirements engineering and interface definition.
• Knowledge of major space debris tools, database systems, orbital mechanics, and engineering software methodologies.
• Outreach and engagement with user communities.
• Behavioural Competencies
• Result Orientation
• Operational Efficiency
• Fostering Cooperation
• Relationship Management
• Continuous Improvement
• Forward Thinking

Education and Professional Experience

A master’s degree in systems engineering, aerospace engineering, physics, mathematics, or other relevant sciences, plus seven years of relevant professional experience.

• Additional Requirements
• A broad background in modern engineering methods, preferably applied directly to space debris aspects, with at least five years of demonstrated relevant work experience.
• Demonstrated experience in managing project support, preferably with multi‑stakeholder settings.
• Demonstrated knowledge of current methods related to mission analysis, spacecraft design, ground segments, and mission operations.
• Demonstrated application knowledge of modern project management methods, including cost, schedule, and risk aspects.
• Deep knowledge of the European industrial landscape for space debris mitigation and space traffic technologies, and the ability to define technology development roadmaps.
• Knowledge of ESA’s programmatic environment, technology programmes, and procurement processes of R&D and service activities.
• Experience in the design, testing, and operation of instrumentation (asset).
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

ESA is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.

All qualified candidates, irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, age, disability or other characteristics, are encouraged to apply.

Important Information and Disclaimer

Recruitment will be within the advertised grade band (A2–A4).

If the selected candidate has fewer than four years of professional experience after completing the master’s degree, the position may be filled at A1 level.

Applicants must be eligible to access export‑controlled information and to obtain the required security clearance.

Successful candidates may be required to undergo selection tests and a basic background screening, in line with ESA’s security procedures.

Nationality and Languages

Only nationals of the following states are considered: Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Canada, Cyprus, Latvia, Lithuania, and Slovakia.

The working languages are English and French; knowledge of a third party member state language is an asset.

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