Senior Space Systems Engineer

For the above-mentioned project(s), you will take the role of senior study lead and systems engineer and be responsible for leading concept studies and contributing to their execution. You will closely interact with scientists involved in specific mission proposals and who can provide requirements and input for those space missions. Moreover, they also provide input on relevant technologies needed to carry out scientific measurements. You will further interact with colleagues from ETH Zurich | Space who have vast experience in the space industry and in the Swiss space ecosystem. Additional support from students and/or external partners is envisioned and needs to be established in coordination with the project leadership team.

As part of your role, you will:

• Manage system requirements, specifications, and interface control documents.
• Develop concepts for mission architecture, such as launch, spacecraft/payload design, and ground segment.
• Optimize the balance between scientific return, technology readiness, and mission feasibility while coordinating with the project manager to align schedule and cost.
• Lead system-level architecture, design trades, and interface definition for planetary and astrophysics missions, spanning optical instruments, spacecraft systems, and Entry, Descent, and Landing (EDL) architectures.
• Drive mission development from concept through system integration, including trajectory analysis, GNC performance trades, and integration of sensors, actuators, and thermal protection subsystems, as well as verification and validation of flight hardware and software.
• Oversee, plan, and document the manufacturing, assembly, and integration of space systems and subsystems to meet performance and reliability standards.
• Establish additional support from students and external partners in coordination with the project leadership team.
• Develop and execute test plans and procedures, including environmental testing and validation. This includes managing non-conformances and coordinating respective review boards.
• Define and maintain system-level budgets (mass, power, thermal, data) and ensure consistency across subsystems.
• Identify and manage technical risks, maintain configuration control, and ensure traceability throughout the project lifecycle.
• Plan, document, and lead system engineering activities and design reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, etc.) in coordination with project management.
• Support early-stage concept formulation within the π Innovation Hub, contributing to feasibility studies, prototyping, and transition of successful concepts into structured mission development within the Project Hub.
• Provide technical guidance and mentoring to junior engineers and student teams involved in early-stage and mission design activities.

You have a background in space mission engineering and architecture development or comparable expertise with space systems. Experience working in an international setting is a bonus. Above all, you should have a passion for learning and a curiosity for understanding how things work, enjoy taking responsibility, be proactive, and work goal-oriented.

We are looking for someone with:

• Master’s degree or PhD in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or related fields.
• Over 15 years of experience in spacecraft systems engineering for planetary and astrophysics missions, with significant expertise in EDL systems, trajectory design, and GNC integration for NASA flight projects.
• Proven record in leading complex payload and telescope system designs, from optical instruments to precision scientific subsystems for international missions.
• Experience leading system-level design reviews and requirements verification across multiple flight programs.
• Proven experience in the design, development, manufacturing, assembly, integration, and testing of space systems and subsystems.
• The ability to conduct system-level analysis and trade studies to inform design decisions.
• In-depth understanding of space mission requirements, space systems engineering principles, and lifecycle processes.
• Strong organizational and coordination skills to manage and balance project priorities, timelines, and resources.
• Excellent communication skills and a demonstrated ability to collaborate with international partners (NASA, ESA, and academia).

Additionally, the following characteristics are a plus:

• Experience working in an international or multidisciplinary environment.
• Knowledge of industry standards and best practices for space systems engineering.
• Experience in early-stage space mission development.
• Awareness of the Swiss and European space ecosystem, including OEMs, industry contractors, and academic partners.
• Hands-on experience in mission operations support and data analysis for planetary or astrophysical missions.