ERS-EO/Downstream Ground System 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 domains including Earth observation, human spaceflight, and satellite navigation, and collaborates with numerous international partners to advance space science and technology.

Job Overview:
The ERS-EO/Downstream Ground System Manager will play a pivotal role in the management of the ERS-EO downstream activities within the Earth Observation Programmes. This position is crucial for the preparation and acceleration of the future implementation of the EU Earth Observation Governmental Service (EOGS). The manager will oversee the definition and implementation of the EOGS-SM ground segment framework, ensuring that all components work together seamlessly. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of mission planning, flight operations, data management, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security operations, as well as the ability to manage complex projects within budget and on schedule. The successful candidate will report directly to the ERS-EO Downstream and Applications Manager and will be responsible for ensuring that all downstream activities align with ESA's strategic objectives and security requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the ERS-EO/Downstream Ground System Manager include managing contributions to EOGS system-level activities, overseeing the definition and implementation of the EOGS-SM ground segment framework, and ensuring that all activities are completed within the established schedule and budget. The manager will also be responsible for defining and implementing ground system functionalities that enable interoperability across all ERS-EO downstream components. This includes managing procurement actions, coordinating with ESA and external stakeholders, and ensuring that all activities are coherent and consistent with architectural and technical standards. Additionally, the manager will identify and mitigate risks associated with the downstream implementation and report on the status and progress of activities. Health and safety risks in the area of responsibility must also be assessed and managed effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess solid multidisciplinary knowledge of the technical and operational domains relevant to ERS-EO downstream activities, including mission planning, flight operations, data generation, and security operations. Strong experience in managing complex ground segment implementations, particularly in the Earth observation domain, is essential. Familiarity with ESA's procurement processes and security frameworks is also required. Candidates should demonstrate strong leadership capabilities, effective relationship management, and excellent communication skills. A proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to manage multiple interfaces in a dynamic environment are critical for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in a relevant engineering subject is required for this position. This educational background provides the necessary foundation for understanding the complex technical and operational challenges associated with Earth observation and ground segment management.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of relevant experience is required for this position. This experience should include managing complex projects in the Earth observation domain and a proven track record of leadership and team management. Candidates with experience in developing dual-use systems will be particularly well-suited for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is one of the working languages of ESA. Knowledge of French is also required. Proficiency in another language from a Member State would be considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration within the diverse ESA workforce.

Additional Notes:
The position is a four-year appointment, extendable to indefinite, and is classified within the grade band A2-A

• Recruitment will be conducted in accordance with the advertised grade band, although candidates with less than four years of relevant experience may be considered for a lower grade. Applicants must be eligible to access information subject to European or US export control regulations and must be able to obtain security clearance. The recruitment process may include selection tests, and successful candidates will undergo basic screening before appointment. ESA 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.