Electronic Engineers and Technicians

Overview

Direct message the job poster from European Southern Observatory

Recruitment Assistant at European Southern Observatory

We are offering a number of exciting roles across different experience levels, applicable to recent graduates through to experienced engineers and technicians. These positions are crucial to supporting the development of innovative electronic systems for ESO's world-class observatories in Chile, including the Extremely Large Telescope (ELT).

Whether you're a recent graduate, a hands-on technician, or an experienced electronics engineer, you'll contribute to the design, development, assembly, integration, testing, commissioning and maintenance of complex electronic and control systems, often in collaboration with international consortia and industrial partners.

General duties and responsibilities

Depending on the position and level of experience, responsibilities may include:

• Design and development of analog and digital electronic circuits and systems
• PLC-based automation for instrumentation and telescope subsystems (Beckhoff TwinCAT, Siemens S7 1500)
• Development of mixed-signal PCBs and embedded firmware (e.g., SoCs, microcontrollers)
• Participation in system testing, validation and integration campaigns
• Assembly and wiring of electronic components and cabinets, including cryogenic applications
• Technical support in cleanroom and laboratory environments
• Documentation, specification writing, and participation in design reviews
• Coordination with suppliers, consortia and external partners across Europe
• Contribution to quality and safety processes including EMC compliance and tests

Who we're looking for

We welcome applicants who largely match one of the following profiles:

Essential Qualifications & Experience

Electronics Engineers (Experienced and Junior):

• A university degree in Electronics Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field
• Knowledge of analog/digital circuit design and tools (e.g., Altium Designer, PSpice)
• Experience with PLC based Control Systems
• Familiarity with development on embedded systems and microcontrollers
• Strong troubleshooting skills and experience with laboratory instrumentation
• Experience or interest in programming (Python, C/C++, VHDL/Verilog)
• Clear, concise communication skills in English
• Practical experience with soldering, cable assembly and fine mechanics or optics work
• Familiarity with cleanroom environments and ESD protocols
• Comfortable using laboratory equipment for testing and diagnostics
• Excellent teamwork and documentation skills

Desirable skills for all roles

• Familiarity with EMC/EMI considerations and safety norms for electrical equipment and machinery
• Knowledge of PLC technologies or cryogenic systems
• Experience in international or interdisciplinary teams
• Interest in astronomical instrumentation or large-scale scientific facilities

All advertised positions require business trips to suppliers and consortia premises in Europe and to the ESO sites in Chile. Interested and suitable candidates may also work on-site at the ELT in Chile on temporary transfer for an agreed period of time.

An excellent command of English (written and spoken) is essential. Knowledge of German and/or Spanish is an asset.

Remuneration, benefits and contract conditions

We offer an attractive remuneration package including a competitive salary, comprehensive pension scheme and medical, educational and other social benefits, as well as financial help in relocating your family and support to place your child/children in daycare.

"Our salary structure:"

ESO's salary structure is based upon a range of career paths which reflect the nature and level of our roles. Each career path is made up of two or three grades which are used to further reflect experience and performance. Please follow this link for more details

ESO aims to support members of personnel in maintaining a good work-life balance between their professional and private life. ESO is also committed to offering family-friendly support, creating a work environment and policies which allow staff to balance their professional and private responsibilities through flexible working arrangements and financial support for families.

• International Staff Member - The initial contract is for a fixed term duration of three years and is subject to successful completion of the probation period.
• Paid Associate - The initial contract is for a fixed-term duration of one year with the possibility of a fixed-term extension of one final year.

In both cases, extensions of contract may be possible based on individual performance and programme needs in particular for the ELT Programme, and as defined in the applicable policies and staff rules and regulations. Please note that contract policies may therefore be subject to change.

For any further information, please visit ESO's conditions of employment.

Apply now

If you're passionate about electronics and want to work on some of the most advanced scientific infrastructure in the world, and in a stimulating international environment, we'd love to hear from you. Applicants are invited to apply online at

Please indicate in your application which profile(s) best match your skills and experience:

• Junior Electronics Engineer

Applications must be completed in English and should include a motivation letter and CV. Within your CV, please provide the names and contact details of three persons familiar with your work and willing to provide a recommendation letter upon request. Referees will not be contacted without your prior consent.

Closing date for applications for all roles is 9 November 2025.

Interviews are expected to start soon after this date.

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