About this job

Serco is a leading Space Services Provider with thousands of skilled resources that has supported over 50 space missions on behalf of more than 10 Space or Government agencies around the globe, including the ESA and NASA. Serco offers space capability across the full space lifecycle from satellite testing to Launch services, LEOP to spacecraft operations, space surveillance to data management, and supporting downstream application development. With over 55 years history in the space sector Serco is well placed to contribute to National strategies and New Space ventures who want to scale their businesses/organizations with skilled talent.

We are looking for a dynamic Power Conditioning Engineer to join our team at the esteemed ESA-ESTEC site in the Netherlands. Step into a remarkable role that grants you access to one of the globe’s highly coveted space agencies.

Responsibilities

• The design, development and test of spacecraft power systems for on-board applications. This work encompasses the definition of centralized power systems having overall power levels up to 25 kilowatts, together with their interfaces with respect to solar arrays and batteries, the attendant power distribution/protection equipment and pyrotechnic activation functions. Detailed tasks include the overall system design necessary for the development of fault-tolerant power control and distribution concepts, the detailed design of the power regulators and the identification/use of tools and methods for ensuring dependable design and verification.
• The development of simulation blocks for system analysis (batteries, solar cells & arrays, power control and distribution units) useful for the independent evaluation of critical power and energy budgets (in support to running projects of the Agency).
• Support to laboratory activities concerning design and development or verification of circuits for power management and distribution (solar array and battery conversion electronics, power distribution and protection electronics, power conversion for generic and specific purposes, including redundancy and protections).
• Active involvement in critical R&D activities support (by simulation, worst case analysis and laboratory testing of the overall system or of the most critical sub-units).
• Assisting to the development and validation of worst case simulation blocks for electrical equipment analysis (converters, shunt regulators, current limiters, protections, critical telemetry or telecommand functions) useful for the independent check of the most critical equipment functionality and performances, in support to all programmes reviews where the power conditioning section is involved.
• The development and verification of high voltage design technologies and associated power converters, suitable for application as Electronic Power Conditioners (EPCs) for specialized spacecraft payloads such as Travelling Wave Tube Assemblies (TWTA’s) and Electric Propulsion Concepts.

Profile

• Master’s degree in electrical or Electronic Engineering or Physics, PhD degree will be an asset.
• 4 years of relevant work experience.
• Proven experience in Digital Control of power converters.
• Proven experience in FPGA and microcontroller programming.
• Proven experience in the design of power converters with GaN semiconductors.
• Proven experience on space power conversion systems.
• Experience in the development of computer models, especially with SPICE-based simulators like LTspice
• Experience in Python programming for engineering calculations.
• Comfortable with working in a diverse and multinational team environment.
• Excellent interpersonal skills are needed, together with a high degree organizational and communication abilities.
• Proficient in the English language, both written and spoken.
• Knowledge of another EU member state language is an asset.

DE&I:

Within Serco we believe there is a place here for everyone. Diversity & Inclusion at Serco is based on a culture where every voice is heard, and every employee feels valued. Working together as one team, we can enhance the experience of our people and teams, improve the value of our solutions to better serve the missions of our customers, and make a difference in our world. We are enthusiastic and passionate about our work which is infectious. We allow our employees to take responsibility for their work and promote a positive working culture.

What we offer:

• Competitive Salary.
• Comprehensive package of benefits offered by the company.
• Assistance with relocation can be provided, details available upon request.
• Engaging company events to foster team spirit.
• Reimbursement of public transport expenses.
• Access to a variety of sports and recreational activities at ESTEC Escape Recreation Centre.
• Company contribution towards a pension scheme.