Senior Spacecraft Avionics Engineer / Senior Spacecraft Avionics Engineeress

Senior Spacecraft Avionics Engineer

80%-100%, Zurich, fixed-term

ETH Zurich | Space is dedicated to advancing space activities both within ETH and in collaboration with external stakeholders. Our mission is to position ETH Zurich as Europe's leading institution in space research and education while also being recognized as a premier partner for space-related projects within Switzerland and globally. Founded in 2022, ETH Zurich | Space has been under the leadership of Prof. Dr. Thomas Zurbuchen since 2023. We are committed to driving technological advancements, shaping future policies, and inspiring the next generation of space scientists and engineers.

This position is offered as a fixed-term appointment for an initial period of two years, with the possibility of extension.

Project Background

The objective of this initiative is to establish and grow a centralized pool of space engineering expertise within ETH Zurich | Space. This pool will support ETH Zurich-led space projects and technology programs, strengthening ETH Zurich's role as a key contributor to the Swiss and international space ecosystem.

A significant portion of this role will contribute to LunarLeaper, an ETH Zurich-led mission concept focused on innovative mobility and exploration strategies for the lunar surface. LunarLeaper serves as a technology pathfinder for advanced planetary avionics, autonomy, and system integration, providing a unique environment for developing and maturing high-risk, high-reward avionics solutions.

Job Description

As part of the specialized resource pool, you will provide avionics engineering expertise across multiple space research projects at ETH Zurich. Working closely with scientists, systems engineers, and external partners, you will contribute to the design, development, integration, and verification of spacecraft avionics systems.

Key responsibilities include:

• Taking technical ownership of spacecraft avionics subsystems, acting as the primary technical authority for onboard computing and data handling within the assigned project scope.
• Designing and developing spacecraft avionics architectures, including onboard computers, data handling systems, communication buses, and power interfaces.
• Translating mission and payload needs into avionics requirements, specifications, and interface control documents (ICDs).
• Performing avionics hardware-software integration, including embedded flight software, firmware, and real-time systems.
• Conducting and/or leading avionics trade studies, balancing performance, reliability, power, mass, and technology readiness.
• Supporting assembly, integration, and test (AIT) activities for avionics subsystems and system-level testing.
• Developing and executing avionics test procedures, including functional testing and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing.
• Supporting anomaly investigation, non-conformance management, and participation in review boards.
• Contributing to system-level documentation and design reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR).
• Coordinating with internal and external stakeholders, including academic partners, industry suppliers, and space agencies.
• Supporting proposal preparation, technology development activities, and early-stage mission concepts.

Profile

You have a strong technical background in spacecraft avionics and embedded systems, combined with the ability to work across multiple projects in a collaborative academic environment.

We are looking for someone with:

• A Master’s degree in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in spacecraft avionics engineering.
• Experience with onboard data handling systems, avionics buses, and subsystem interfaces.
• Knowledge of embedded software, real-time systems, and hardware-software integration.
• Familiarity with avionics AIT, verification, and validation activities.
• Strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
• Knowledge of radiation-tolerant electronics, redundancy, and FDIR concepts.
• Hands-on experience contributing to spacecraft flight software development and testing.
• The ability to deliver technical solutions under time and resource constraints.

Additionally, candidates who do not completely fulfill all requirements are encouraged to apply.

The following characteristics are a plus:

• Experience working on space-related projects in academia or industry.
• Familiarity with ECSS and/or NASA avionics standards.
• Experience with FPGA-based avionics architectures, including design, implementation, or integration.
• Experience collaborating with international partners or space agencies.
• Awareness of the Swiss and European space ecosystem, including suppliers and OEMs.

Workplace

A dynamic, international, and interdisciplinary work environment at one of the world's leading technical universities awaits you. Join a motivated team that shares a passion for space and innovation, and contribute to space missions from early concept to flight.

We Value Diversity and Sustainability

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Sustainability is a core value for us – we are consistently working towards a climate-neutral future.

Application Process

Interested candidates are invited to apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and direct transfer of new knowledge into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.