Space Avionics Systems Architect

About Gramian Consulting and Client

Gramian Consulting is a boutique firm specializing in IT and engineering staffing solutions, with expertise in software engineering and leadership. Our client is a key player in aerospace and space technology, working on sophisticated avionics, simulation environments, and engineering tools for satellite and flight control development.

Position Summary

The role entails leading the architectural design and technical definition of spacecraft avionics systems. The focus areas include onboard computer systems, payload interfaces, high-speed networking, failure detection, isolation and recovery (FDIR) mechanisms, system recovery concepts, and procedures for mission operations. This position is best suited for an experienced systems architect or senior consultant with extensive knowledge in spacecraft avionics and embedded distributed hardware architectures comprising processors, FPGAs/SoCs, and high-speed connections.

Employment Terms and Location

The engagement is a full-time contractor agreement for multiple years, onsite at Friedrichshafen, Bremen, or Munich in Germany. Relocation assistance is provided. Candidates must possess an EU passport and be fluent in English; proficiency in German is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead comprehensive spacecraft avionics system architecture definition and design.
• Develop system breakdown and interface strategies between onboard computing units and payload elements.
• Architect high-speed networking payloads, backplane designs, and system bootup and recovery methodologies.
• Develop and implement robust FDIR techniques, involving safe-mode protocols and watchdog timer concepts.
• Create and maintain detailed technical documentation, including architecture diagrams and design rationale.
• Conduct engineering analyses on topics such as radiation tolerance, electromagnetic interference/compatibility, signal integrity, and power distribution.
• Work collaboratively with cross-disciplinary teams covering networking, guidance navigation and control (GNC), RF, software, FPGA, and mechanical engineering domains.
• Provide expert support in technical decision making concerning architectural trade-offs and system limitations.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Aerospace, Electrical, or Electronics Engineering or an equivalent qualification.
• At least 10 years’ professional experience in spacecraft avionics, high-speed digital electronics, or complex embedded systems hardware.
• Proven record of designing distributed systems using processors, FPGAs/SoCs, and high-speed interfaces.
• Demonstrated expertise with ATOP and MOIS frameworks.
• In-depth knowledge of EGS-CC operations procedure language (EAPL).
• Good understanding of ECSS PUS standards.
• Familiarity with ECSS-E-ST-70 guidelines.