Optical Payload System Engineer

Optical Systems Engineer (Payload/ Earth Observation Small Satellite)
Location: Remote or Hybrid (Europe-based)

Do you want to drive innovation in next-generation spacecraft payloads?

Join our NewSpace client in developing advanced satellite systems designed to enhance mission performance and shape the future of space-based Earth observation.

The Role
We are seeking an experienced Optical Payload Systems Engineer to join the spacecraft engineering team and ensure optimal payload performance across current and future missions.
You will play a key role in developing deep technical knowledge of existing payloads while contributing to the design and development of next-generation systems. Collaboration will be central, working closely with internal engineering teams, operations staff, and external partners and suppliers.

Key Responsibilities

• Derive technical payload requirements from top-level system requirements.
• Perform design trade-offs to identify the most efficient technical solutions under programmatic and technological constraints.
• Co-design and co-develop payload systems with external partners.
• Support and participate in supplier reviews and technical discussions.
• Define and maintain payload budgets (e.g., radiometric, image quality, data rate).
• Conduct payload functional and performance analyses and testing.
• Contribute to mission analysis and system-level performance assessments.
• Support verification, qualification, and certification processes for payload systems.
• Collaborate with other subsystems to define interfaces and requirements.
• Participate in AIT (Assembly, Integration, and Testing) planning and execution.

Location
This role can be performed remotely or in a hybrid setup from Germany or Belgium.
Occasional travel for meetings and supplier visits is expected.
Exceptional candidates across Europe may also be considered for remote work.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in optical payload design for space applications (infrared preferred).
• Proven ability to deliver results to schedule and proactively communicate risks or delays.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills with the ability to learn new domains quickly.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal.
• Experience working with suppliers and cross-functional engineering teams.
• Familiarity with Linux environments.
• Working knowledge of Python (or another programming language) and willingness to develop further skills in Python.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with optical design tools such as Zemax (or equivalent).
• Optical Assembly, Integration, and Testing (AIT) experience.
• Background in opto-mechanical design.

Why Join

• Work on cutting-edge satellite payload systems that make a real impact on Earth observation and sustainability.
• Flexible working arrangements, including remote and hybrid options.
• Competitive compensation with potential for long-term incentives.
• Join a diverse, collaborative, and mission-driven team shaping the future of space technology.

If you are interested, please apply today!
Email: angela.olmo@newspacetechnical.com