Collective Launch Service Procurement Technical Officer

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 operates across multiple countries, focusing on various aspects of space exploration, including Earth observation, human spaceflight, and satellite navigation. ESA's mission is to provide Europe with a space capability and to foster international cooperation in space exploration.

Job Overview:
As the Collective Launch Service Procurement Technical Officer, you will play a crucial role in supporting ESA missions that require launch services. This position is situated within the Directorate of Space Transportation, specifically under the authority of the Head of Collective Launch Service Procurement (CLSP). Your responsibilities will encompass the entire lifecycle of launch service preparation, starting from the early stages of mission design and feasibility analysis, all the way through to the execution of the launch campaign. You will be expected to work closely with various stakeholders within the Space Transportation Directorate and engage in iterative processes with launch service providers to ensure successful mission outcomes. Your expertise will be vital in ensuring mission compatibility with launch systems and in managing the complexities associated with launch service procurement.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Your primary duties as the Collective Launch Service Procurement Technical Officer will include:

• Supporting ESA missions by coordinating and managing their launch services effectively.
• Acting as the main point of contact for mission representatives from the initial definition of the mission until the launch service work order is signed.
• Providing expert advice on mission-to-launch-system compatibility, including defining necessary interfaces in collaboration with ESA engineering teams.
• Conducting thorough mission feasibility analyses with assistance from ESA technical experts, utilizing STS tools and methodologies to identify critical areas and propose mitigation strategies.
• Identifying the most appropriate launch systems for each mission and determining any required adaptations, coordinating these with relevant STS services.
• Recognizing non-standard launch service needs and managing their procurement in partnership with the launch service provider.
• Assessing and monitoring risks associated with launch services throughout the mission lifecycle.
• Supporting negotiations and finalizing launch service work orders and any subsequent changes, working closely with mission teams and ESA procurement services.
• Coordinating the preparation and execution of mission launch campaigns, ensuring all aspects are meticulously planned and executed.

Required Qualifications:
To be considered for this position, you must possess a strong background in managing complex projects that involve multiple interfaces, particularly during the early definition phases and implementation stages. You should have a solid understanding of mission analysis, especially in evaluating mission compatibility with various launch systems. Familiarity with light satellites, including CubeSats, as well as large satellite projects, is essential. Experience in preparing and conducting launch campaigns, with exposure to both launcher and mission aspects, will be viewed as a significant asset. Additionally, you should demonstrate competencies in result orientation, operational efficiency, fostering cooperation, relationship management, continuous improvement, and forward thinking.

Educational Background:
A master's degree or an equivalent qualification in an engineering discipline is required for this position. This educational background will provide you with the necessary technical knowledge and analytical skills to effectively perform the duties associated with the role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have relevant professional experience, ideally four years or more, following the completion of their master's degree. However, if a candidate has less than four years of experience, the position may be filled at a lower grade level (A1). This experience should be directly related to the responsibilities of managing launch services and conducting mission analyses.

Languages:
Proficiency in English or French is mandatory, as these are the working languages of the Agency. A good command of one of these languages is essential for effective communication within the organization. Knowledge of an additional language from another ESA Member State would be considered an asset, enhancing your ability to collaborate in a diverse environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time appointment for a duration of four years, with the possibility of extension to an indefinite term. Recruitment will be conducted within the advertised grade band (A2-A4), and candidates must be eligible to access information and technology subject to European or US export control and sanctions regulations. The recruitment process may include selection tests, and successful candidates will undergo basic screening before appointment. The Agency is committed to diversity and inclusiveness, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics. The Human Resources Department is available to provide assistance during the recruitment process.