Earth Observation Satellite System Engineer

About the role

A vacancy for an Earth Observation Satellite System Engineer has opened at Airbus Defence & Space in Madrid (Getafe), within the EOS Chief Engineering Department (TSESS). The engineer joins the Systems Engineering team developing high-end Earth Observation satellite systems for institutional and defence markets, playing a key part in the lifecycle of next-generation satellite missions. The role also acts as a deputy to the Chief Engineer, supporting technical oversight and system-level management.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of the Verification & Validation (V&V) plan according to ECSS standards, define verification methods and manage the Verification Control Document
• Execute mission analysis, generate the CONOPS and derive V&V strategies, and coordinate system-level tests including environmental and end-to-end functional tests
• Manage satellite interfaces and Interface Control Documents between spacecraft, payload and ground segments, resolve cross-subsystem conflicts and perform interface impact analysis
• Support the Chief Engineer in technical oversight, risk management and technical reviews (PDR, CDR, QR, AR)
• Contribute to resource estimation, cost control, schedule alignment and technical progress monitoring
• Help deploy new engineering methods and tools (e.g. MBSE, multi-disciplinary analyses, DDMS) and develop features for existing product lines

Required profile

• Master's degree or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Physics or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in Systems Engineering in the space industry, on satellite platforms or high-complexity missions
• Strong background in Earth Observation or science mission architectures is a significant plus
• Fluency in English; Spanish, French and German are a plus

Required skills

• Space mission lifecycle and ECSS standards
• Requirements engineering (e.g. DOORS) and interface management
• Satellite subsystems (AOCS, EPS, OBDH, Telecommunications, Thermal); SAR and optical payloads knowledge is a plus
• Interpreting complex test data and technical reports

What we offer

• Attractive salary and vacation days plus additional days off
• Hybrid working where possible, collective transport at some sites
• Health insurance, employee stock options, retirement plan or study grants
• On-site facilities such as a canteen, kindergarten and medical office
• Upskilling opportunities and development prospects