We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Lead software scientist to spearhead the development of a generic Payload Data Ground Segment (PDGS) for scientific Earth Observation space missions. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in advancing our capabilities in processing and managing data from Earth observation satellites, thereby supporting current and future scientific missions such as SPEXone (in NASA context) and TANGO (in ESA context). The TANGO mission will routinely deliver CO2, CH4, and NO2 observations. Its PDGS system will ensure satellite data acquisition, processing, dissemination, and science data product archiving. In addition, the PDGS applies inflight calibration and monitors the mission data quality and the instrument’s long-term performance. The science data are routinely validated against ground truth. Setup and maintenance of a data portal and a monitoring and validation website are also PDGS tasks.

Your Key Responsibilities will be:

• Lead the design, development, and implementation of a generic PDGS for Earth Observation missions and ensure tailoring for specific missions such as TANGO.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including scientists, engineers, and external partners such as agencies and industry, to ensure the PDGS meets mission requirements.
• Oversee the integration of data processing algorithms and the orchestration of the dataflow.
• Ensure the system’s scalability and adaptability for various missions.
• Ensure compliance with quality standards and best practices in data management and security.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of scientists.
• Engage with stakeholders to gather requirements and provide regular updates on project progress.
• Coordinate documentation and reporting responsibilities on development and functioning of PDGS to external costumers and users.