On behalf of the Science Directorate (SRE) at ESAC, Spain, we are looking for a: Software Technician

Tasks and Responsibilities:

Working on the Herschel project at the Herschel Science Centre (HSC) in ESAC, Spain, you will perform systematic and bulk data processing to generate the raw scientific data and produce level 1 & level 2 type products for standard observations, to process special modes such as serendipity and parallel modes or calibration campaigns, and for testing purposes.

Additionally, you will perform systematic examination of quality of all observations processed through the pipeline as part of a team of Herschel Data Processing Technical Assistants. Specific tasks include:

Pipeline processing:

• Installing, running and monitoring the pipeline processing for systematic, on-demand and bulk reprocessing
• Triggering possible maintenance intervention in the case of problems
• Interaction with software experts to maintain knowledge about instrument data processing and the HCSS

Quality control of Herschel Data Products:

• Performing systematic examination of quality of all observations processed through the pipeline
• Triggering possible instrument expert intervention in the case of problems
• Ensuring that the quality flagging is done in a timely manner
• Entering correct quality information attached to archived observations
• Generating lists/views with summaries of quality assessment in order to obtain various quality statistics
• Interaction with instrument experts to maintain quality control flags and rules and knowledge about instrument artefacts and calibration
• Acceptance testing of new HCSS versions
• Representing the Herschel Data Processing Technical Assistants in Configuration Control Boards and technical briefings
• Provision and maintenance of relevant procedures
• Log Keeping and Reporting

Skills and experience:

• University degree in a scientific discipline, preferably astronomy, or equivalent;
• Several years’ relevant working experience;
• Experience working in an operational environment is advantageous;
• Experience with astronomical data products including basic data analysis is a strong advantage;
• Experience in interacting with instrument experts and software developers is an advantage.
• Interest in coding of small tools and programs is an advantage.
• Experience working with UNIX is an advantage.
• Good interpersonal skills and communication skills;
• Fluent English, both written and spoken. A working knowledge of Spanish is an advantage.

Starting date: 1 October 2009 or as soon as possible thereafter

An exciting international working environment in a highly innovative and motivated team awaits you!

HE Space Operations is a growing international company specialised in the space market. We have been providing consultancy services in space engineering and business administration for over 25 years. We offer interesting and challenging job opportunities with customers such as the European Space Agency and EADS Astrium.