Control Specialist (Reserve list)

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, including but not limited to Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain, and is involved in various space missions and projects that contribute to scientific knowledge and technological advancement in space exploration.

Job Overview:
The Control Specialist position is part of a Reserve list recruitment process initiated by ESA to address the ongoing demand for skilled professionals in support of its advanced space projects and programs. As a Control Specialist, you will be integrated into the Business Unit of the Directorate, where you will work closely with Directorate teams to ensure effective engagement and responsiveness. Your role will involve overseeing data consolidation, maintaining data quality, and ensuring accurate reporting. You will play a crucial role in implementing processes by authorizing transactions and making operational decisions that align with the Directorate's interests. This position requires a high level of independence to avoid conflicts of interest while contributing essential knowledge to ensure business continuity. The Reserve list will allow you to be fast-tracked for future positions within ESA, although inclusion does not guarantee recruitment. If selected, you will be contacted directly for relevant opportunities, and your candidacy will be reviewed when a suitable position arises.

Duties and Responsibilities:
As a Control Specialist, your responsibilities will encompass a wide range of tasks, including but not limited to: managing the end-to-end activities related to resource and activity plans, which include commitments, budgets, costs, cash flow, geo-return, risks, schedules, and workforce management; performing delegated control and approval functions in accordance with ESA's regulations and best practices; preparing and overseeing procurement processes from tendering to contract closure, including negotiations with industry and institutional stakeholders; monitoring the implementation of activities to ensure compliance with control procedures and industrial policy rules; maintaining and verifying budgetary data for your assigned area; conducting mid- and end-of-year financial closure exercises; identifying and managing risks within your areas of responsibility; preparing financial inputs for the Directorate's analysis centers; and contributing to operational excellence and continuous improvement initiatives within your area of responsibility.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a vocational qualification (EQF level 5) in a relevant discipline, along with a minimum of four years of relevant professional experience in a post-related field. Previous experience in a project or program environment, particularly within an agency, international organization, or industrial setting, is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to work autonomously and collaboratively in a diverse, international team environment, meeting both team and individual objectives and deadlines. Strong written and oral communication skills are essential, as well as a disciplined approach to managing demanding tasks.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a vocational qualification at EQF level 5 in a relevant discipline. This could encompass fields such as finance, business administration, project management, or other related areas that provide the necessary skills and knowledge for the role of Control Specialist.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of relevant professional experience in a similar role. Candidates should have a proven track record of working within a project or program environment, ideally in settings such as agencies, international organizations, or industrial contexts. This experience should demonstrate the ability to manage complex tasks and contribute effectively to team objectives.

Languages:
The working languages of ESA are English and French. A good command of one of these languages is mandatory for the position. Additionally, knowledge of another language from a Member State would be considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration within the diverse workforce of ESA.

Additional Notes:
This position is part of a Reserve list recruitment process, meaning that candidates will be pre-assessed and pre-approved for future vacancies. The Reserve list will remain active for a period of 24 months, during which candidates may be contacted for relevant opportunities. The position is full-time, and candidates must be nationals of one of the specified Member States. ESA is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusiveness in its workforce, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics. The agency also provides support for individuals with disabilities during the recruitment process.