Simulator Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
EUROCONTROL is an intergovernmental organization established in 1960, dedicated to supporting European aviation. With a mission to enhance the safety and efficiency of air traffic management across Europe, EUROCONTROL operates in 41 countries and employs over 1,800 staff members. The organization plays a crucial role in coordinating air traffic management and ensuring that airspace users can operate safely and efficiently. It is committed to fostering collaboration among its member states and stakeholders to improve air traffic services and develop innovative solutions for the aviation sector.

Job Overview:
The Simulator Assistant position at EUROCONTROL is a specialized role within the Maastricht Upper Area Control Centre (MUAC). The selected candidate will be responsible for providing technical support in the development and implementation of simulation exercises that are essential for training air traffic controllers and other aviation personnel. This role requires a blend of technical expertise and instructional skills, as the Simulator Assistant will design and prepare training materials, conduct classroom and simulator-based instruction, and assess the performance of students. The position also involves collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure that simulation exercises meet regulatory requirements and customer needs. The Simulator Assistant will play a key role in maintaining the functionality of simulator tools and systems, troubleshooting issues, and coordinating maintenance activities. This position is integral to the training and operational improvement initiatives within the organization, and it offers opportunities for professional growth and development in a dynamic and multicultural environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Simulator Assistant include:

• Providing specialized technical support by collecting, filtering, analyzing, and processing data to support the creation and implementation of simulation exercises.
• Designing and preparing courses and training materials, including computer-based training and simulation exercises, in line with course objectives.
• Delivering classroom tuition and simulator-based instructions to both internal and external customers, such as Ab initio students and Air Traffic Controllers.
• Testing new or modified simulation exercises in collaboration with relevant parties and adapting them based on customer requirements.
• Preparing and conducting examinations to assess students' understanding and skills in accordance with regulatory requirements.
• Monitoring and maintaining simulator tools and systems through routine checks and updates, troubleshooting issues, and coordinating maintenance activities.
• Acting as a focal point for classroom training and simulation exercises, ensuring timely availability of resources and documentation.
• Overseeing daily activities of simulator pilots and adapting plans as necessary.
• Preparing simulator infrastructure for systems testing or validation. 1
• Participating in projects or workgroups requiring training input or output, with a focus on achieving operational improvements. 1
• Carrying out any other tasks in line with the main purpose of the job.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed relevant post-secondary education, such as Aeronautical Engineering or Computer Science, meeting the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) Level 5 or higher. Additionally, at least 5 years of relevant professional experience is required to effectively carry out the responsibilities of the position. Internal candidates may refer to the intranet for equivalency information regarding in-house experience. Experience in the development of airspace simulations and familiarity with airspace simulation platforms are essential. Knowledge of the Air Traffic Control (ATC) and Air Traffic Management (ATM) domains is also required. Candidates with experience in delivering classroom courses or military ATC experience will have an advantage, as will those with knowledge of MUAC airspace and systems.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Simulator Assistant position includes a relevant post-secondary degree in fields such as Aeronautical Engineering or Computer Science. This educational qualification must align with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) Level 5 or higher, ensuring that candidates possess the necessary theoretical knowledge and technical skills to perform the job effectively.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience. This experience should ideally include work related to airspace simulations and familiarity with the operational aspects of air traffic management. Candidates with a background in military air traffic control or those who have developed training programs will be viewed favorably. The ability to adapt to a dynamic work environment and collaborate with diverse teams is essential.

Languages:
Proficiency in English at level C1 is mandatory for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the Agency. Candidates must demonstrate their ability to communicate effectively in English, particularly in technical and instructional contexts. Knowledge of French is also beneficial, as it is the second working language of the Agency, and candidates who possess this skill may have an advantage in the selection process.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified as an Assistant role at levels AST4-AST6, with a duration of 5 years, subject to renewal or conversion under specific conditions. The selected candidate will be required to undergo a probationary period of nine months before being established in the post. The role operates under a hybrid working model, allowing for a combination of onsite presence and remote work, although full-time remote work is not permitted. The selected candidate must reside in Maastricht or within a reasonable distance to fulfill their duties effectively. The appointment will be made in accordance with the General conditions of employment governing servants at the EUROCONTROL Maastricht Centre, and candidates should be aware that applications are accepted only from nationals of EUROCONTROL Member States.