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 Spacecraft and Instrument AIT 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.

The candidate will be responsible for ensuring the adequate and timely assembly, integration and testing of the LSTM satellite including the spacecraft platform and the payload opto-mechanical elements.

Responsibilities

Following the LSTM instrument subsystems integration and test activities:

• Reviewing the mechanical AIT activities related to the equipment flight models;
• Monitoring the development of breadboard and qualification models,
• focusing on the feasibility of manufacturing, alignment, integration and testing;
• Ensuring robustness of the mechanical AIT schedule, including contingency scenarios to meet the programme schedule;

Coordinating the LSTM instrument alignment and test campaign preparation:

• Providing support to the LSTM Instrument industrial team with regard to definition and optimization of the alignment procedures, and related Ground Segment Equipment (GSE) definition;
• Reviewing the instrument thermo-mechanical test procedures and optical alignment control plans;
• Providing support to the LSTM Payload manager and Instrument
• Principal Engineer with regards to definition of the opto-mechanical performance verification campaign;
• Providing support with respect to the definition and implementation of functional and performance test procedures, as required;

Following up the LSTM platform, instrument and satellite AIT campaign:

• Acting as the day-to-day project interface with the LSTM instrument and satellite AIT team regarding all aspects of integration, alignment and testing activities;
• Reviewing instrument assembly, integration and test plans and procedures at instrument and satellite level;
• Attending relevant tests at instrument and satellite level and reviewing the associated test reports in coordination with satellite and instrument engineering teams;
• Coordinating, along with LSTM Payload manager and Principal engineer, the participation of the ESA Payload team in the AIT campaign;
• Ensuring adequate documentation, traceability and resolution of AIV anomalies following agreed processes, and coordinating involvement of the required expertise;
• Reviewing the instrument and satellite prime contractor development approach and schedule, and monitoring the critical path of the AIT activities, proposing mitigation actions to anticipate or when risks materialize at unit, instrument or satellite level;
• Participating in system-level reviews (space/ground segments when relevant) to ensure suitability of the instrument design and verification program necessary to meet performance requirements;
• Supporting general project reporting tasks (monthly, QSR) and other Department-level support activities as required;
• For the purposes of supporting the LSTM payload AIV/AIT activities, the candidate is expected to apply his knowledge of opto-mechanical systems alignment, integration and testing.

Profile

• Minimum of 4 years of relevant professional experience in the field of Spacecraft or Instrument AIT/AIV;
• PHD or Msc Engineering from a recognised institution of secondary studies (University) or equivalent;
• Previous experience on alignment of optomechanical systems is considered an asset;
• Effective communication skills in order to build up successful professional relationships with the many interfaces;
• Operational efficiency including strong planning capabilities to optimize and adapt the schedule;
• Technical competencies Systems engineering;
• Knowledge of industrial costs and schedule aspects;
• Definition and execution of opto-mechanical systems testing Optical mechanical integration and alignment activities Optical GSE at scientific instrument level;
• Thermo-mechanical AIV/AIT background including test facilities Optical instrument functional test definition and assessment;
• Space system development and PA standards Technical knowledge of optical instruments;
• Result orientation, operational efficiency and fostering cooperation;
• Comfortable with working in a diverse and multinational team environment.
• Proficient in the English language, both written and spoken.
• Knowledge of another EU member state language is an asset.
• Candidates must be eligible to work in the EU.

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.