COSMIC Project Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The European Space Agency (ESA) is an intergovernmental organization dedicated to the exploration of space. Established in 1975, ESA has grown to include 22 member states and employs over 2,200 staff members. The agency's mission is to shape the development of Europe's space capability and ensure that investment in space continues to deliver benefits to the citizens of Europe and the world. ESA operates in various countries across Europe and collaborates with international partners to advance space science and technology.

Job Overview:
As the COSMIC Project Manager, you will play a pivotal role in the implementation and delivery of the COSMIC activity area, which focuses on space safety, including aspects such as space weather, planetary defense, and space debris management. Your responsibilities will encompass managing COSMIC funds, overseeing risks, margins, and schedules, and ensuring effective collaboration with various departments within ESA. You will be tasked with identifying and prioritizing the needs of COSMIC in relation to technology programs and will serve as the primary point of contact for the European Commission regarding space weather and Near-Earth Objects (NEO). This position requires a strong understanding of project management principles and the ability to navigate complex organizational structures to achieve project goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
In your role as COSMIC Project Manager, you will report directly to the Head of the Space Safety Programme Office. Your key responsibilities will include: implementing and delivering the COSMIC Programme Cornerstone; coordinating with OPS-S units for expertise in space weather, planetary defense, space debris, and clean space; managing COSMIC funds, georeturn, risks, margins, and schedules; defining and making decisions regarding COSMIC workplan items; overseeing service contracts for test and validation services; managing tasks assigned to ESA by the European Commission; providing centralized coordination for functional reporting; liaising with various directorates and departments; maintaining the COSMIC-wide risk management framework; overseeing the implementation schedule for major COSMIC projects; coordinating with the Business Unit Control Office for project controlling; and supporting the Head of the Space Safety Programme Office in preparing for Programme Boards and Council meetings. Additionally, you will be responsible for identifying, assessing, managing, and reporting health and safety risks within your area of responsibility.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in project management, including experience with risks, budgets, and schedules. A good understanding of ESA's procurement processes and the functioning of related boards is essential. Familiarity with technical disciplines such as space debris, space weather, and planetary defense is also required. Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage cross-directorate projects are crucial for success in this role. Furthermore, candidates should demonstrate excellent cognitive, analytical, delegation, planning, and organizational skills, as well as the ability to anticipate problems and make timely, high-quality decisions.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in aerospace engineering, physics, or a general engineering discipline is required for this position. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the complex technical and managerial aspects of the COSMIC projects.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in systems engineering, including experience in mission studies and technology development across various project phases. Practical experience in project management within an ESA context is essential, as is familiarity with the European Commission's Space Programme and its procurement processes. The ability to coordinate with multidisciplinary teams and interface with institutional and commercial partners is also critical.

Languages:
The working languages of ESA are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these languages is mandatory, while knowledge of another Member State language would be considered an asset. This linguistic capability is essential for effective communication within the agency and with external partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time appointment for a duration of 4 years, with the possibility of extension to an indefinite term. Mobility is inherent to management functions, and opportunities for rotation may be available after approximately five years in this role. ESA is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusiveness, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics. The agency values diversity and seeks to accommodate individuals with disabilities by providing necessary support in the workplace.