ELC Capacity Demonstration Manager / Boost! Commercial Services 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 encompass 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 space science, and collaborates with numerous international partners to advance space exploration and technology.

Job Overview:
The ELC Capacity Demonstration Manager / Boost! Commercial Services Manager position is pivotal in supporting the burgeoning commercial space transportation sector in Europe. This role is integral to the European Launcher Challenge (ELC) and the Boost! commercial space transportation programme, both of which are designed to enhance Europe's capabilities in space access. The successful candidate will oversee the development support and capacity demonstration activities undertaken by selected companies, ensuring that these initiatives align with ESA's strategic goals. Responsibilities will include managing technical and programmatic aspects of contracts, monitoring progress, validating milestones, and coordinating with various stakeholders. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying risks and proposing mitigation strategies, as well as evaluating the technical maturity of service proposals from economic operators. The position is dynamic, with duties potentially evolving based on organizational needs and priorities, making it essential for the candidate to be adaptable and forward-thinking.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the ELC Capacity Demonstration Manager / Boost! Commercial Services Manager include: managing the technical, financial, and programmatic implementation of industrial contracts under the ELC and/or Boost! programmes; overseeing development, testing, qualification, and demonstration activities conducted by supported companies; monitoring compliance with requirements for capacity demonstration; assessing readiness for demonstration flights; evaluating technical maturity and market relevance of service proposals; coordinating with internal stakeholders and Member States; leading and deploying specialized engineering support; contributing to program outreach and documentation; and ensuring timely and compliant programme implementation. The role also involves participating in technical reviews, preparing internal documentation, and supporting interactions with Member States through reporting and presentations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree or equivalent qualification in an engineering discipline. Additionally, experience in managing industrial contracts and monitoring industrial activities is essential. Familiarity with ESA's procurement processes is desirable, along with the ability to assess industrial workplans, technical dossiers, and performance metrics. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work autonomously and cooperatively with diverse stakeholders are crucial for success in this role. Experience in industry-driven commercialization programmes and cooperation with the European Union would be advantageous.

Educational Background:
A master's degree or equivalent qualification in an engineering discipline is required for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate possesses the necessary technical knowledge and skills to effectively manage the complex tasks associated with space transportation systems and commercial services.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have relevant professional experience, ideally in the range of four years or more, following the completion of their master's degree. This experience should be in areas related to space transportation systems, industrial contract management, and commercial space initiatives. Candidates with less than four years of experience may be considered for a lower grade level (A1).

Languages:
The working languages of the European Space Agency are English and French. A good command of one of these languages is mandatory for the position. Knowledge of another language from a Member State would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively within the diverse environment of ESA.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term appointment for four years, with the possibility of extension based on performance and organizational needs. The role is based at ESA Headquarters in Paris, France, and is open to nationals of specific member states. 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. Candidates must be eligible to access information subject to European or US export control regulations, and successful applicants will undergo a background screening process prior to appointment.