Space Optical Communications Engineer

Connect with Eutelsat Group

Be part of a new era in communications, transforming connectivity with Eutelsat Group – the world’s first GEO-LEO integrated global satellite operator.

As a leader in satellite communications, we provide global connectivity solutions - connecting businesses, communities, and governments around the world. We can connect you at on land, at sea and in the air. We also deliver broadcast television channels and packages, transmitting vital news reports around the world.

With Eutelsat Group You’ll Get To:

• Pioneer the future of Space Technology
• Bring connectivity to remote frontiers
• Collaborate with customer-centric experts
• Embrace cultural diversity in our global team

In a dynamic industry where passion drives our teams to make a difference to become the most trusted partner for global satellite connectivity, you will elevate your skills in a stretching, rewarding, and meaningful environment. At Eutelsat Group, we’re united by inclusion and diversity, striving for gender balance and social responsibility, on Earth and in Space.

Why Eutelsat Group?

• Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion: With colleagues from over 75 countries, we embrace our global DNA and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace. We take pride in being led by a female CEO, with one-third of our executive team and 60% of our board represented by women.
• Ways of Working That Drive Us: As "One Team," we work collaboratively towards shared goals, with customer-centricity, respect, and inclusivity as our guiding principles.
• Sustainability at Our Core: At Eutelsat Group, sustainability is more than just a word; it’s woven into our strategy. We’re dedicated to balancing social, environmental, and economic growth — both on Earth and in space.
• Work-Life Balance: We offer flexible schedules and hybrid/remote work options to help you balance your personal and professional life. At Eutelsat Group, we are committed to supporting your well-being and ensuring you have the flexibility you need to succeed both at work and at home.

Ready to grow with us? Apply today and help us build a more inclusive, sustainable future in the world of satellite technology

Who You are :

As a Space Optical Communications Engineer, you won’t just be part of a mission — you’ll help define it. You’ll play a key role in architecting the high-speed optical links that will power Eutelsat’s next-generation LEO constellation, enabling ultra-fast, laser-based data transmission across the globe. This is your chance to be at the forefront of a technological leap that’s reshaping global connectivity — pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in space-based communications.

In this role, you’ll own the end-to-end design, validation, and operational readiness of the constellation’s optical communications system. You’ll work side-by-side with communications systems engineers to assess performance across the entire link chain and interface with payload and avionics teams to ensure seamless integration into the spacecraft platform. From conceptual design through in-orbit deployment, your expertise will directly influence the success of our global network.

You’ll collaborate with a diverse group of passionate engineers and technical leaders, ensuring every element of the system is aligned with mission requirements and ready to meet the challenges of real-time, high-throughput space data transfer. Your contributions will be critical in transforming ambitious concepts into operational reality, helping to deliver always-on, low-latency connectivity to even the most remote corners of the Earth.

This isn’t just a job — it’s a rare opportunity to leave your mark on a flagship space program. If you're excited by innovation, driven by complex challenges, and ready to work on a system that will define the future of global communications, we want you on our team.

What You’ll Do:

• Provide specialized knowledge in space optical communications system architecture and the design of optical telecommunications payload units, driving innovation and excellence in the field.
• Manage the entire lifecycle of space optical communications units, from specification development through design, assembly, integration, and testing, ensuring alignment with project and mission objectives.
• Analyze test data, lead investigations into anomalies, and drive resolution efforts to ensure the reliability and performance of optical communication systems.
• Assist in the technical evaluation of proposals from equipment manufacturers, focusing on the effectiveness, performance, and suitability of optical equipment for space applications.
• Perform detailed assessments to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of optical payload technologies in meeting technical and operational requirements, ensuring they align with mission goals.
• Act as a technical representative in meetings and reviews, ensuring compliance with design, analysis, and testing standards, and guaranteeing that optical payload units meet communication objectives.
• Work closely with the satellite operation engineering team to resolve in-orbit anomalies, ensuring smooth and reliable operations of optical communication systems.
• Keep abreast of the latest developments in optical payload design, simulation tools, and emerging technologies to drive innovation and continuously improve satellite communication capabilities.
• Proactively identify areas that require attention and provide regular updates to management, ensuring transparency and alignment with organizational goals.
• Establish and implement best practices for the design, testing, and operation of optical communication systems, enhancing overall efficiency and performance.
• Provide mentorship and training to junior engineers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development within the team.
• Ensure that all optical communication systems comply with relevant industry standards and regulatory requirements, maintaining high levels of safety and reliability.
• Continuously seek opportunities to optimize the performance of optical communication systems, reducing costs and enhancing mission capabilities.

What it Takes: 

• Hold a university honors degree in Engineering (Telecommunications, Aerospace, Electrical Engineering, or a related field), with a Master’s or PhD in a relevant specialization being highly preferred.
• Possess at least 10 years of experience in space optical communications, or equivalent qualifications through advanced degrees.
• Demonstrate proven experience in the procurement and management of payload/satellite equipment, encompassing specification, design, development, and testing.
• Have strong experience with space optical technology, including free-space optical communication, laser communication systems, optical amplifiers and repeaters, adaptive optics, optical fiber technology, optical modulation techniques, optical component design, optical link budget analysis, and atmospheric effects on optical signals.
• Benefit from hands-on experience with space optical technologies, considered a strong advantage.
• Knowledge and experience in Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and space-to-ground optical communications are highly valued.
• Show proficiency in programming languages such as Python or MATLAB for simulation and analysis, viewed as a plus.
• Exhibit the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams and communicate clearly with stakeholders.
• Be willing and able to travel frequently for technical meetings and reviews.
• Maintain an excellent command of English, both written and spoken. 

Where You’ll Be:

Issy-Les-Moulineaux, France 

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This role is a Eutelsat Group job opening; all of our open roles are posted on the current OneWeb and Eutelsat websites. Please note that when you are applying, your application may be seen by both teams.