P120C/P160C and Solid Propulsion Programme 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, exploration, and satellite navigation, and has a significant presence in multiple countries across Europe.

Job Overview:
The P120C/P160C and Solid Propulsion Programme Manager will play a crucial role in the Flight Programmes Department within the Directorate of Space Transportation. This position involves overseeing the technical and programmatic implementation of the P120C/P160C programme activities, ensuring that there is full coherence between the developments of the Ariane 6 and Vega-C/E programmes. The successful candidate will act as the technical focal point for solid propulsion activities related to the European-developed launchers, specifically Vega and Ariane

• This role requires a blend of technical expertise and program management skills to ensure the successful execution of complex aerospace projects, including the completion of development and qualification phases, production robustness, and cost reduction initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Manager will be responsible for the following duties:

• Overseeing the technical and programmatic implementation of the P120C/P160C programme, ensuring the completion of the P160C development and qualification, including the verification of full operational capability.
• Managing activities related to P120C/P160C, including future static firing tests and initiatives aimed at improving production robustness and increasing production rates.
• Ensuring full coherence and compatibility of the P160C with the Ariane 6 and Vega-C/E launch systems.
• Providing technical support to solid propulsion activities within the Vega-C/E programme, coordinating with the Vega-C and Vega-E Programme Managers.
• Acting as the focal point for solid rocket propulsion activities in the exploitation programmes, collaborating with relevant teams.
• Leading a small team, managing their activities, and ensuring effective project control, product assurance, and safety support.
• Identifying, assessing, managing, and reporting health and safety risks in the area of responsibility.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in a relevant domain, along with a minimum of 10 years of professional experience in large-scale development programmes. Strong technical knowledge and experience in solid rocket propulsion and launcher systems are essential. Familiarity with the European launcher sector is advantageous, as is project management expertise. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to interact effectively with industry stakeholders and possess strong analytical, planning, and interpersonal skills.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in a relevant field is required for this position. This educational background should be complemented by extensive professional experience in aerospace or related industries, particularly in roles that involve technical management and program oversight.

Experience:
The position requires at least 10 years of relevant professional experience, particularly in large-scale development programmes. Candidates should have a strong technical background in solid rocket propulsion and launcher systems, as well as experience in managing complex projects and teams. International experience and exposure to diverse functional areas relevant to ESA activities are considered assets.

Languages:
The working languages of the European Space Agency are English and French. A good command of one of these languages is mandatory, along with a working knowledge of the other. Knowledge of an additional language from a Member State is considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration within the diverse ESA environment.

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

• Recruitment will be conducted within this grade band, although candidates with less than four years of relevant experience may be considered for an A1 level position. Applicants must be eligible to access information and technology subject to European or US export control regulations and must be able to obtain security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security-clearance" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security clearance from their national security administrations. 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.