Earth Observation Satellite System Engineer

About the Role

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Earth Observation Satellite System Engineer to join Airbus Defence & Space in Madrid (Getafe), within the EOS Chief Engineering Department.

We are looking for a highly skilled Satellite Systems Engineer with a strong background in Earth Observation and/or Science satellite systems development. You will be an integral part of the Systems Engineering team, contributing to the development of state-of-the-art, high-end Earth Observation satellite systems for institutional and defence markets. This role is critical throughout the lifecycle of next-generation satellite missions, focusing on ensuring complex space systems are built to specification through rigorous Verification & Validation (V&V) and robust Interface Management.

Beyond your core technical responsibilities, you will serve as the Deputy to the Chief Engineer, offering high-level technical support and assisting in the technical management of the system. This unique position allows you to bridge deep technical engineering expertise with strategic system-level management.

Responsibilities

System Engineering and V&V

• Lead the development and execution of the Verification & Validation (V&V) Plan in accordance with ECSS standards.
• Execute mission analysis, generate the CONOPS, and derive V&V strategies for the product.
• Define verification methods (Analysis, Inspection, Demonstration, Test) to ensure all system requirements are met throughout the mission lifecycle.
• Oversee the creation and management of the Verification Control Document (VCD).
• Coordinate complex system-level tests, including environmental testing and end-to-end functional tests.

Interface Engineering

• Manage satellite interfaces throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Manage Interface Control Documents (ICDs) between the spacecraft, payload, and ground segments.
• Ensure seamless integration of hardware and software components by managing technical interfaces and resolving cross-subsystem conflicts.
• Perform interface impact analysis during design changes to ensure system integrity.

Technical Management & Deputy Chief Engineer Duties

• Support the Chief Engineer in the technical oversight of the entire mission, ensuring technical consistency across all subsystems and OTOQOC delivery of the satellite.
• Assist in technical decision-making processes and the management of technical risks and contingencies.
• Participate in Technical Reviews (PDR, CDR, QR, AR) and prepare high-level technical documentation for customers and stakeholders.
• Contribute to the technical management of the project, including resource estimation, cost control, schedule alignment, and technical progress monitoring.

Key Contributions

• The deployment of novel engineering methods, processes, and tools (e.g., MBSE, multi-disciplinary analyses, concurrent design engineering…).
• The digitalization of design, development, and manufacturing processes (e.g., DDMS), and their smooth implementation across all involved disciplines.
• The development of novel features into existing product lines and/or upgrading of existing product lines to cope with those novel features, as dictated by the business.

Skills Required

Education & Experience

• Master’s Degree or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field.
• Proven experience (5+ years) in Systems Engineering within the Space industry, specifically on satellite platforms or high-complexity space missions.
• Strong background in Earth Observation or Science mission architectures is a significant plus.

Technical Skills

• Deep understanding of the Space Mission Lifecycle and ECSS standards.
• Knowledge of SAR and Optical payloads is a plus.
• Expertise in Requirements Engineering (e.g., using DOORS or similar tools).
• Proficiency in Interface Management and System Modeling.
• Strong knowledge of satellite subsystems (AOCS, EPS, OBDH, Telecommunications, Thermal).
• Ability to interpret complex test data and technical reports.

Soft Skills & Leadership

• Leadership Potential: Ability to step into a deputy management role, demonstrating maturity and technical authority.
• Communication: Excellent ability to communicate complex technical concepts to both multidisciplinary engineering teams and non-technical stakeholders.
• Problem-Solving: A proactive approach to identifying technical risks and proposing mitigation strategies.
• Language: Fluency in English is required. Proficiency in Spanish, French, and German is a plus.

Benefits and Perks

At Airbus, we are committed to our employees' welfare and offer a range of social benefits:

• Vacation days plus additional days-off throughout the year.
• Attractive salary.
• Hybrid working model where possible, promoting work-life balance.
• Collective transport service available at some sites.
• Benefits such as health insurance, employee stock options, retirement plans, or study grants.
• On-site facilities including a free canteen, kindergarten, and medical office.
• Opportunities to collaborate in various social and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
• Excellent upskilling opportunities and great development prospects in a multicultural environment.
• Special rates on products and benefits.

This job requires an awareness of any potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the Company’s success, reputation, and sustainable growth.