IRIS2 System Engineer for 5G/6G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN)

Deadline to apply: 30/03/2026

We are looking for an IRIS2 System Engineer for 5G/6G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) to complete our consultants’ Workforce Management Service to support ESA’s Directorate of Connectivity and Secure Communications (CSC) at ESA’s premises, mainly ESTEC (Noordwijk, NL).  In this role, the engineer contributes to the development, validation, and standardisation of advanced satellite‑enabled communication systems across space and ground segments. The position supports the definition of next‑generation NTN architectures, from protocol stack development to end‑to‑end verification, in close collaboration with ESA teams, industry partners, and 3GPP bodies. It offers the chance to work on cutting‑edge technologies shaping Europe’s future secure and resilient connectivity services.

CSC supports innovation in satellite telecommunications and the development of advanced applications using space-based systems. Through research, development, and industrial partnerships, CSC contributes to strengthening the European and Canadian satellite communications sectors. 

CSC also supports major public–private initiatives focused on the development of new satellite systems, validation of innovative services, and deployment of secure telecommunications capabilities. A growing portion of CSC activities involves third-party funded programmes, particularly within the Union Secure Connectivity Programme (IRIS²). 

The CTAS will provide support to CSC with a multidisciplinary, onsite team of specialists who deliver technical, management, engineering, and security expertise across the IRIS² and EuroQCI programmes. The service supports CSC by reinforcing programme management, procurement, system design, verification, validation, security, and governance activities, enabling ESA to execute its entrusted responsibilities from the European Commission. 

Through its work packages, CTAS personnel integrate directly into CSC project teams, ensuring day‑to‑day operational continuity, rigorous technical assessment, configuration and project control discipline, and support throughout all major ESA reviews and milestones. By deploying experts across spacecraft systems, ground segment development, telecommunications, quantum communications, security accreditation, and project governance, the service ensures CSC can efficiently manage complex, multi‑partner programmes and maintain compliance with ESA, EC, and security requirements, ultimately strengthening Europe’s secure connectivity and communications capabilities. 

Please note, the successful candidate will be employed by ATG Europe (or one of its subsidiaries). Furthermore, upon selection, they will be subject to a general security screening performed by an external provider (further information will be provided at the interview stage). Candidates must have or be eligible to obtain Personal Security Clearance (PSC) up to ESA SECRET / EU SECRET. 

The successful candidate will be tasked with, but not limited to: 

• Provide system engineering support for ESA’s IRIS² 5G/6G NTN activities;

• Develop 5G/6G NTN software protocol stacks (onboard and onground), including Split 2 and full gNB implementations;

• Support end-to-end system validation in lab and inorbit, ensuring deviations are addressed;

• Follow interfaces across spacecraft, ground segment, 5G Core, payload, and external systems;

• Define and develop 5G/6G testbeds with representative hardware from user terminals to space gNB;

• Organize and execute test campaigns, including inorbit experiments, to derisk 5G developments;

• Monitor and support 3GPP standardization, contributing work items and technical papers aligned with IRIS² goals;

• Perform requirements engineering and consolidation for system and testbeds;

• Define functional and physical system architectures;

• Conduct design tradeoff analyses;

• Define technical interfaces;

• Assess technical risks and mitigation strategies;

• Execute system and testbed validation campaigns; analyse results;

• Investigate and analyse deviations and nonconformances;

• Support ESA in industrial milestone reviews (PDR, CDR, QR, IOVR, SD);

• Assess industrial deliverables and prepare review comments;

• Produce technical deliverables such as system models, simulations, tradeoff reports, RIDs, test plans, test results, MBSE models, and inputs to DCNs and 3GPP contributions.

ATG is dedicated to diversity and inclusion and is an equal opportunity employer. Regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, handicap, or any other reason protected by relevant state or municipal legislation, we are pleased to consider all eligible candidates for employment. 

Please ensure that your CV clearly explains how you meet the mandatory requirements. If it doesn’t align completely with the essential criteria, it could result in rejection. 

• Masters Degree in Telecommunications Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or similar;

• Minimum of 4 years work experience in in 5G/6G, NTN, satellite communications, or advanced wireless systems;

• Experience with Interface definition across space/ground segments, Testbed definition and hardware representative environments, and test campaigns;

• Experience supporting engineering reviews (PDR, CDR, QR, IOVR);

• Experience with MBSE tools and system modelling/simulation tools;

• Strong background in system engineering, protocol stack development, or communication system architecture;

• Skills in requirements engineering, architecture design, trade-off analysis, and risk assessment;

• Strong analytical and technical problem-solving skills;

• Ability to analyse deviations/nonconformances;

• Understanding of 5G/6G protocol stacks, especially NTN versions (Split 2, full gNB);

• Knowledge of end-to-end system validation, both in lab and inorbit;

• Knowledge of ESA/ECSS engineering processes is an asset;

• Familiarity with 3GPP standards and contributions to work items/technical papers;

• Familiarity with the IRIS2 programme is an asset;

• Clear and structured communication for coordinating with ESA, industry, and standardization bodies;

• Ability to work independently and manage complex multisegment interfaces; 

• Attention to detail and a structured documentation mindset;

• Candidates must be eligible to live and work in the EU;  

• Candidates must have or be eligible to obtain Personal Security Clearance (PSC) up to ESA SECRET / EU SECRET; 

• Fluency in English, both written and spoken.  

Please submit your application in English via the apply button below. Applications submitted in other languages will not be considered. 

Early applications are encouraged as they allow for a smooth and efficient recruitment process. Please do not wait until the deadline to submit your application.