Location: Bucharest
Company: TCE
Client Assignment: European Space Agency (ESA)

This opportunity is within TCE, a member of NKT Energy, the group that also includes ETHGroup and Energotech. While this position is posted through our group channels, the role is fully embedded within the TCE engineering team and its active projects.

About TCE

TCE is a leading engineering services provider delivering high-end technical expertise to the aerospace and space sectors. We support major European programs by supplying specialized engineering talent to institutional and commercial space projects.

We are currently seeking an Automation Engineer – Test Environment to support space hardware verification and validation activities for the European Space Agency (ESA).

Position Overview

The Automation Engineer will be responsible for the development, implementation, and maintenance of automated test environments used for space systems verification. This includes data acquisition systems (DAQ), hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulations, PLC-controlled test benches, and integration of simulation tools.

The role supports qualification, acceptance, and functional testing of space subsystems and payloads in accordance with ESA standards (ECSS).

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain automated test systems for space hardware
• Configure and manage data acquisition systems (DAQ) for electrical, thermal, and mechanical measurements
• Develop and integrate hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation environments
• Program and configure PLC systems using TIA Portal (Siemens)
• Develop automation logic for test benches (interlocks, safety, sequencing)
• Create automated test scripts and validation procedures
• Interface sensors, instrumentation, and control systems with test software
• Support environmental testing (thermal, vibration, functional)
• Ensure compliance with ECSS standards and project test requirements
• Troubleshoot test anomalies and support root cause investigations
• Document test architecture, procedures, and results
• Collaborate with systems, AIT, software, electrical, and mechanical engineering teams

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field
• Minimum 5–8 years of experience in automation or test engineering (preferably aerospace/space)
• Strong experience with PLC programming and industrial automation
• Proven hands-on experience with TIA Portal (Siemens S7, HMI integration, safety PLCs)
• Experience with data acquisition systems and instrumentation
• Programming skills (Python, LabVIEW, MATLAB/Simulink, or similar)
• Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) systems
• Knowledge of communication protocols (Profinet, CAN, Ethernet, RS-422/485; SpaceWire is a plus)
• Understanding of signal conditioning and sensor integration
• Experience working in regulated, high-reliability environments
• Professional-level English

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting ESA or institutional space programs
• Familiarity with ECSS standards
• Experience with real-time simulation platforms
• Knowledge of control systems and closed-loop automation
• Experience working in cleanroom environments
• Basic understanding of space systems (payloads, mechanisms, avionics)

Personal Competencies

• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills
• High level of autonomy and ownership
• Structured and detail-oriented mindset
• Ability to work under schedule constraints
• Strong communication skills in multidisciplinary teams

What We Offer

• Direct contribution to high-impact European space missions
• Long-term assignment supporting the European Space Agency
• Competitive compensation package
• International and highly technical work environment
• Opportunities for professional growth in space system verification and validation