Senior AOCS Engineer
Key Skills
Job Description
As a member of our AOCS team, you will be responsible for the design, implementation and performance verification of AOCS algorithms, sensors and actuators. Your activities will range from being responsible for implementing AOCS hardware and software in a satellite mission as Mission AOCS Engineer, to performing research & development in the scope of the company’s technology roadmap, to liaising with system engineers and contributing to pre-studies for mission proposals and, last but not least, building simulation models and expanding the company’s AOCS simulation framework. As AOCS engineer you will enjoy a lot of freedom to experiment and develop/adapt innovative control techniques and hardware to CubeSats. The small satellite market is experiencing a trend where higher demands are placed on the accuracy and reliability of AOCS solutions and we see a clear need for pushing the boundaries of what is achievable with CubeSats through adaptation of state-of-the-art technologies. You will take part in realizing that and will be working hands-on with both flight hardware and software from the start. We expect you to be ambitious, pro-active, and to be able to work autonomously, while also being a dedicated team-member. Your main responsibilities: Acting as Mission AOCS Engineer or supporting that function throughout the entire lifecycle of a mission (from requirements analysis to in-orbit operations). Developing control algorithms and software. Developing simulation code and executing simulations for performance analysis & verification. Contributing to hardware design on AOCS system- and subsystem level. You will also be involved in: Liaising with ISISPACE’s systems engineering team to coordinate satellite level AOCS performance and in planning & supporting satellite test campaigns. Liaising with ISISPACE’s embedded software team for implementation of AOCS algorithms. Supporting satellite sales to ensure technical offers sent to customers are sound and comply with ISISPACE’s capabilities and AOCS roadmap. An academic master’s (MSc) degree or higher in: control engineering, electrical/electronics engineering, space systems engineering or other appropriate (the latter to be evaluated per case). At least 4-5 years of experience, in the field of AOCS or GNC. A solid grasp of mathematics and physics (especially attitude and orbit dynamics). Working experience with one or more of the following disciplines: electronics, (embedded) software engineering, filter & controller design, simulation. Affinity with both hardware and software. Proficiency in one or more of the following programming and scripting languages: MATLAB, C, C++, Python. Good communication skills in English (spoken and written). If you do not meet all requirements, the following may be taken into consideration or, generally, will be considered as a plus: Experience with designing control systems. Experience with designing electronics systems. Knowledge of other programming languages. Knowledge of propulsion systems, orbit control and related orbital dynamics. A degree in Mathematics or Physics. A good understanding of modern microprocessors and digital communication buses (I2C, RS485, SpaceWire, CAN). Experience with digital systems design. Familiarity with ECSS.
Core Responsibilities
Responsible for the design, implementation, and verification of AOCS algorithms, sensors, and actuators for satellite missions. This includes developing simulation models, contributing to hardware design, and coordinating with systems and software teams throughout the mission lifecycle.
Requirements
Requires a Master's degree or higher in control, electrical, or space systems engineering with 4-5 years of experience in AOCS or GNC. Proficiency in MATLAB, C, C++, or Python and a strong grasp of orbital dynamics and physics are essential.
About ISISPACE Group
Industry: Defense and Space Manufacturing
Company size: 51-200 employees
ISISPACE Group is a vertically integrated small satellite company, focused on providing high value, cost-effective space solutions by making use of the latest innovative technologies. As one of Europe’s leaders in the nanosatellite domain, ISISPACE offers small satellite missions for a broad range of customers and applications with a strong focus on in-orbit testing, climate action and security. In addition, ISISPACE provides a select range of its products and services for third-party satellite developers, including satellite power systems, launch equipment and rideshare launch services. Headquartered in the Netherlands, ISISPACE Group employs about 100 specialist employees with a background in space technology and engineering and the company operates from two different sites in the Netherlands (Delft) and South Africa (Somerset West). The company’s core competencies lie in the application of space systems engineering in combination with an expertise in the following technical areas: radiofrequency systems and payloads, deployable systems and hold-down and release mechanisms, attitude determination systems, and embedded systems. We are growing and looking for people. If you are interested to join our team, please check out our vacancies at https://www.isispace.nl/careers.