ERS-EO Downstream & Applications 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 & Applications Manager will play a pivotal role in the European Resilience from Space – Earth Observation Programme (ERS-EO). This position involves reporting to the Head of the Earth Observation Mission Management and Ground Segment Department and is responsible for the coherent management and strategic integration of various activities related to the ERS-EO Programme. The primary objective of this role is to prepare and accelerate the implementation of the EU Earth Observation Governmental Service (EOGS) in close collaboration with the EU and ESA Member States. The manager will oversee the definition and implementation of the EOGS-SM ground segment framework, ensuring interoperability across all downstream components. Additionally, the role includes managing end-to-end proof of concepts and Space Resilience Nodes activities, which are crucial for delivering space-based products and services for public safety and disaster relief. The position requires a strategic mindset to align various initiatives and ensure that all activities meet cost, schedule, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the ERS-EO Downstream & Applications Manager include ensuring the coherent definition and implementation of the ERS-EO Downstream, End-to-End Proof of Concept/Applications, and Space Resilience Nodes activities. The manager will establish effective coordination with the ERS-EO Architecture and Upstream Manager to maintain technical coherence throughout the EOGS-SM project lifecycle. Responsibilities also include steering the overarching downstream architecture vision, endorsing major architectural choices, and preventing fragmentation within the ERS-EO domain. The manager will maintain strategic collaboration with SatCen, oversee proof of concept activities, and ensure effective interactions with national authorities and stakeholders. Additionally, the manager will represent ERS-EO Downstream and Applications to ESA’s technical authorities and external stakeholders, manage a multifunctional team, and ensure compliance with security requirements. Identifying and managing health and safety risks in the area of responsibility is also a key duty.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master’s degree in engineering, along with 12 years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, a bachelor’s degree with an additional four years of relevant experience may be considered. The role requires international experience outside the home country and experience in diverse functional areas relevant to ESA activities. Proven leadership skills in motivating and developing teams in a project environment are essential, as well as the ability to provide strategic direction and drive performance across teams. Excellent leadership, relationship management, and communication skills are mandatory, along with strong cognitive, analytical, and organizational skills.

Educational Background:
A master’s degree in engineering is required for this position. Candidates with a bachelor’s degree may be considered if they have an additional four years of relevant professional experience. The educational background should be complemented by a strong understanding of engineering principles as they relate to Earth observation and space systems.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 12 years of relevant professional experience for candidates with a master’s degree. For those with a bachelor’s degree, at least 16 years of relevant experience is necessary. Experience in leading complex ground systems and operations, particularly in Earth observation missions, is crucial. Candidates should also have a deep understanding of ESA and EU security frameworks and experience with procurement processes.

Languages:
The working languages of ESA are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these languages is required, while knowledge of another Member State language would be considered an asset. Proficiency in English is particularly important for effective communication within the agency and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a four-year appointment, extendable to indefinite, and is classified under grade band A4, with potential for upgrade to A5 pending approval from the European Competitiveness Fund. The role may involve mobility opportunities as part of career evolution at ESA, typically after five years in the position. 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. Applicants must be eligible to acquire security clearance by their national security administrations, and successful candidates will undergo basic screening before appointment.