As a TT&C/PDT Subsystems Engineer, you will play a key role in supporting European Space Agency (ESA) initiatives at ESTEC in the Netherlands. Your primary focus will be on RF communication subsystems, including Telemetry, Tracking & Command (TT&C), Payload Data Transmission (PDT), and Inter-Satellite Links (ISL). You will contribute to all phases of system development—from initial specifications through design, verification, and testing—ensuring robust performance and compliance with mission requirements.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the engineering lifecycle of TT&C and PDT subsystems, including system architecture, hardware development, and integration
- Define and validate technical specifications for communication equipment and antennas based on system-level needs
- Participate in the design and implementation of modulation schemes, signal synchronization, error control coding, and digital signal processing techniques
- Contribute to the development and testing of Electrical Ground Support Equipment (EGSE) and associated hardware such as transponders, receivers, and transmitters
- Support industrial follow-up, procurement activities, and technical oversight of external suppliers
- Engage in R&D initiatives to advance subsystem capabilities and explore emerging technologies
- Conduct laboratory testing, performance evaluation, and characterization of communication subsystems
- Develop simulation tools and methodologies to support design analysis and validation
- Assist in the preparation of technology roadmaps and contribute to technical reviews with industry and academic partners
- Monitor advancements in RF and satellite communication technologies to maintain state-of-the-art expertise
- Review deliverables from external organizations and provide technical feedback to project officers
- Participate in assembly, integration, and testing (AIT) campaigns as required
Qualifications and Experience
A Master’s degree in Telecommunications or Electronics Engineering is required. You should have several years of hands-on experience in satellite communication subsystems, particularly in TT&C, PDT, and ISL technologies. Demonstrated knowledge of end-to-end RF system performance, signal quality analysis, and on-board digital signal processing techniques is essential. Familiarity with RF/microwave systems, modulation schemes, and error correction coding is critical for success in this role.
Preferred qualifications include experience with simulation and modeling tools, programming languages, telecommunications standards, and security mechanisms such as authentication and encryption in space communication systems.
Work Environment and Benefits
This position operates under a hybrid model, with three days per week on-site at ESTEC in the Netherlands and two days remote. Flexible working hours are supported, provided core hours are maintained. The role offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health coverage, and a pension plan with no employee contribution. Additional benefits include 30 days of annual leave plus institutional closures, a relocation package, travel allowance, and dedicated support for career development through training budgets and learning platforms.
