Failure Detection, Isolation and Recovery (FDIR) Engineer

Job Introduction

Serco is a leading Space Services Provider with thousands of skilled resources that has supported over 50 space missions on behalf of more than 10 Space or Government agencies around the globe, including the ESA and NASA. Serco offers space capability across the full space lifecycle from satellite testing to Launch services, LEOP to spacecraft operations, space surveillance to data management, and supporting downstream application development. With over 55 years history in the space sector Serco is well placed to contribute to National strategies and New Space ventures who want to scale their businesses/organizations with skilled talent.

We’re looking for a FDIR Engineer to join our on-site team at ESA ESTEC in Noordwijk (Netherlands)!

We look forward to meeting you!

Key Responsibilities

Failure Detection, Isolation and Recovery (FDIR) Engineering:

• Support ESA projects throughout all phases of mission development in the area of FDIR definition and implementation.
• Contribute to the traceability and consistency of FDIR aspects across system elements.
• Assist in the preparation and review of FDIR documentation, ensuring compliance with ESA standards.
• Support the definition and validation of FDIR concepts in alignment with system design constraints.

Technical Support and Analysis:

• Contribute to failure management strategy development and evaluation of FDIR methods.
• Support data collection and analysis of mission operational performance and FDIR effectiveness.
• Participate in Concurrent Design Facility (CDF) sessions to provide FDIR-related input.
• Support the maintenance of the ESA FDIR Handbook and related internal standards.

Innovation and R&D Activities:

• Contribute to internal R&D activities on FDIR methodologies, tools, and techniques.
• Support studies on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital twin technologies for FDIR enhancement.
• Assist in preparing and delivering internal FDIR training and documentation.

Knowledge Consolidation:

• Support the activities of the FDIR Competence Centre, promoting harmonisation of tools and processes.
• Identify synergies across projects to strengthen FDIR practices and lessons learned.

Skills

• Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, or Computer Science.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in FDIR, reliability, or systems engineering roles.
• Strong knowledge of failure detection, isolation and recovery principles.
• Proficient in systems engineering and spacecraft operations concepts.
• Experienced in writing and reviewing technical documentation and standards.
• Skilled in data analysis, verification, and validation methods.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills in multidisciplinary environments.
• Knowledge of ESA engineering processes, ECSS standards, and verification procedures.
• Experience working with operations data, risk analysis, and anomaly management.
• Familiarity with AI, machine learning, or model-based tools is an advantage.

Other knowledge and experience:

• Understanding of mission design, autonomy, and system reliability concepts.
• Knowledge of the ESA FDIR Competence Centre or similar frameworks is an asset.
• Experience preparing training materials and internal guidelines.

Language Proficiency Requirements:

• Excellent command of English, both written and spoken, is essential for documentation and communication.
• Ability to clearly present complex system concepts to varied technical audiences.

Package Description

Relocation

The Netherlands' central location in Europe makes it an ideal base for travel and business within the EU. Major cities are well-connected by road, rail, and air with Amsterdam Schiphol Airport one of Europe's busiest and most well-connected airports, facilitating easy international travel.

Serco offers relocation support for all EU passport holders that are planning to relocate to the Netherlands and work for Serco B.V.

On Offer

• Pension and health insurance plans
• Commuting and relocation support
• Training and career development
• Social and sports activities on site
• A range of wellness activities and employee assistance programs