SAR End-to-End Systems Engineer

SAR End-to-End Systems Engineer

Argotec

San Mauro Torinese, Italy

To support the development of next-generation Earth Observation missions, we are looking for a SAR End-to-End Systems Engineer who will drive the design and development of end-to-end SAR-based remote sensing systems, from spaceborne payload definition to ground segment, data processing, and final information products.

DUTIES

As a SAR End-to-End Systems Engineer you will be responsible for the end-to-end architecture and performance of SAR remote sensing systems.

Your activities will include (but are not limited to):

• Define and maintain the end-to-end architecture of SAR remote sensing systems, including space segment, ground segment, and data processing chain;
• Translate mission objectives and user needs into system-level requirements, ensuring traceability across payload, platform, ground, and downstream elements;
• Lead the definition of SAR payload concepts in coordination with payload and systems engineering teams;
• Drive system-level trade-offs involving SAR performance, orbit, revisit time, data volume, onboard processing, and ground processing capabilities;
• Perform and oversee end-to-end performance analyses (e.g. resolution, swath, NESZ, coverage, latency, product quality);
• Ensure consistency between SAR payload design choices and downstream processing, calibration, and product generation;
• Support the preparation and execution of system and payload technical reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, QR);
• Coordinate with internal teams (Systems Engineering, Payload, AIT, Ground Segment, Operations) and external partners;
• Contribute to in-orbit commissioning, calibration, and validation strategies;
• Support the definition of SAR data products, processing levels, and performance KPIs.

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

• Master’s Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering, Electronic Engineering, or related technical fields;
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in SAR systems, Earth Observation missions, or remote sensing system engineering;
• Proven experience in complex space systems development;
• Strong system-level thinking and analytical mindset;
• Hands-on, proactive, and results-driven approach;
• Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate with cross‑functional and multidisciplinary teams;
• Excellent written and oral communication in English.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE & SKILLS

• Solid background in Synthetic Aperture Radar principles and spaceborne SAR systems;
• Experience in end-to-end SAR system design, including payload, mission, and downstream aspects;
• Knowledge of SAR performance drivers and metrics (resolution, swath, NESZ, ambiguities, radiometric accuracy, coverage, latency);
• Familiarity with SAR data processing chains and product generation (e.g. focusing, calibration, geocoding);
• Experience with requirements management, system budgets, and interface definition;
• Understanding of Ground Segment architecture for EO missions (data reception, processing, archiving, distribution);
• Knowledge of space engineering standards (ECSS, MIL, NASA STD);
• Ability to communicate system-level concepts clearly to technical and non-technical stakeholders.

ADDITIONAL ASSETS

• Experience with SAR missions for small satellites or constellations;
• Knowledge of onboard SAR processing and data compression techniques;
• Experience with EO product definition and user-driven mission design;
• Familiarity with calibration/validation strategies for SAR missions;
• Experience with engineering and collaboration tools (e.g. Jira, Confluence).