Argotec is an Italian aerospace company specializing in the production of small satellite platforms (from Cubesats up to 250kg-platforms) and innovative products to improve the comfort of space explorers. Thanks to its facilities and know-how, the company's activities follow the "all in-house" concept, which includes design, development, integration, qualification, and operational services. At Argotec, we’re not just building satellites; we’re shaping the future of space innovation.
To support our Company’s growth, we are looking for an enthusiastic Senior AOCS Systems Engineer who will be part of our Systems Engineering Unit, contributing to the development of innovative and exciting space missions based on Small Satellite satellites, with a primary focus on the AOCS and GNC areas a Systems Engineer.
We foster a collaborative environment where every Argonaut can contribute with their ideas and expertise, create meaningful value together, and transform feedback and mistakes into opportunities for learning and innovation — growing both professionally and personally, as individuals and as a team.
DUTIES
As a Senior Attitude and Orbital Control Systems (AOCS) System Engineer, you will be responsible for the design, development, qualification, and testing of the ADCS and/or propulsion subsystems, ensuring their proper integration within the spacecraft architecture and space mission project.
The activities will include (but are not limited to):
- AOCS suite (ADCS and Propulsion subsystems) technical lead throughout all mission phases, from initial concept (Phase 0/A) up to in-flight operations (Phase E);
- Perform engineering calculations, analysis, modelling and simulations to calculate GNC/AOCS performances;
- Perform technical trade-off, sizing and architecture selection of PS and ADCS hardware;
- Drive the spacecraft GNC architecture according to technical requirements and specifications;
- Management of system budgets with particular focus on deltaV, momentum and pointing budgets;
- Day-to-day collaboration and coordination with the project team;
- Monitoring, control and review of external partners’ work and design; lead technical meetings and propagation of outcome to the internal project team;
- Support the system engineering plan, design report, development and verification plan;
- Produce technical documentation for reviews with customers, subcontractors and suppliers;
- Support and involvement in spacecraft AIT, AIV and qualification activities with a primary focus GNC/AOCS suite;
- Interface with Quality Manager/Officer and involvement in (external/internal) NRB and NCR and configuration control processes.
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
- Master's degree in Aerospace, Space Engineering or related technical field;
- At least 5 years of experience in a similar role, preferably within space sector;
- High flexibility and team-working capability;
- Hands-on and proactive approach;
- Ability to work with tight schedules;
- Ability to work within multidisciplinary and international teams;
- Excellent communication and team-oriented spirit;
- Excellent written and oral communication in English.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE & SKILLS
- Excellent knowledge of spacecraft sensors and actuators;
- Excellent knowledge of spacecraft propulsion systems (chemical, cold gas and electrical technologies);
- Excellent knowledge of pointing performances index (APE, RPE, AKE);
- Knowledge of spacecraft architecture and mission phases;
- Knowledge of orbital and attitude dynamics;
- Development and implementation of AOCS simulator and analyses execution;
- Experience with momentum management strategies;
- Experience in implementation of AOCS/GNC solutions and integration with respect to the spacecraft architecture;
- Familiar with ECSS standard and tailoring (ECSS-E-ST-35C, ECSS-E-ST-60-10C, ECSS-E-ST-60-30C, ECSS-E-ST-10C);
- Practical experience running test campaigns (functional, TVAC, vibration, leak and proof etc.);
- Continuous learning attitude and commitment to excellence;
- Flexibility and adaptability to changing requirements and stakeholder needs;
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously, working under tight deadlines.
ADDITIONAL ASSETS
- Proven experience in implementing AOCS suite solutions, from design to in-orbit operations;
- Hands-on experience with proximity operations space missions;
- Participation in project reviews under ESA supervision;
- Practical experience in real-time spacecraft operations, including execution of AOCS maneuvers and spacecraft commissioning;
- Strong background in GNC algorithm design, such as navigation filters, guidance strategies, and control systems;
- Expertise in GNC FDIR design and implementation;
- Advanced proficiency in Matlab, Simulink, Python, and C/C++.
WHY JOIN ARGOTEC?
- Opportunity to work with highly motivated colleagues in a very innovative environment.
- Professional training and career development opportunities.
- Flexible working time schedule and a hybrid work policy.
- Monthly "Free-Day" - every second Friday: time off to dedicate to your family and/or hobbies.
- A diversified community that organizes extra-work and fun activities.
Salary range: from 40.000€ to 50.000€
The Company reserves the right to assess the appropriate job level and compensation package based on objective criteria emerging throughout the selection process. These evaluations will be carried out in alignment with the candidate’s seniority, skills, and experience, as well as with the scope and responsibilities of the role.
Any compensation proposal will be defined in compliance with the principles of fairness, transparency, and equal opportunity, in accordance with applicable regulations.
Our selection process is tailored to each role and includes at least a call with our Talent Acquisition Team, a technical evaluation, and a final in-person meeting. Your recruiter will share more insights during your first meeting with us!
At Argotec, we thrive on diverse perspectives and unique strengths. Your individuality could be the missing piece to our puzzle! Even if you don't meet every skill listed above, we encourage you to apply if you're passionate about the role and believe you can contribute to our team's success.
Our selection process is built on impartiality, transparency, and equal opportunity, ensuring that every candidate is evaluated based on skills, experience, and potential.
As part of our commitment to inclusivity, we actively encourage applications from individuals belonging to protected categories (Law 68/99). In the event of equal qualifications, priority may be given to candidates who meet these criteria. At Argotec, we’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and inclusion, welcoming individuals of all backgrounds. This opportunity is open to everyone, regardless – for instance – of ethnic or cultural background, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, or national origin.
Join us in a workplace where everyone belongs.
This announcement is aimed at both sexes, under laws 903/77 and 125/91, and to people of all ages and all nationalities, under legislative decrees 215/03 and 216/03.
