Operational Assistant (ATM)

Job Posting Organization:
EUROCONTROL is an intergovernmental organization established to support European aviation. It was founded in 1960 and has since grown to include 41 member states. The organization is dedicated to ensuring safe and efficient air traffic management across Europe, focusing on innovation and sustainability in aviation. With a workforce of over 1,800 employees, EUROCONTROL operates in various countries, providing expertise and support to enhance the performance of air traffic management systems. The organization is committed to fostering collaboration among its member states and stakeholders to address the challenges facing the aviation sector.

Job Overview:
The Operational Assistant (ATM) position is integral to the Aviation Transformation Directorate at EUROCONTROL, specifically within the Innovation Hub. This role involves providing specialized operational support for air traffic management (ATM) activities, contributing to the development and validation of aviation transport concepts. The assistant will engage in research and innovation projects, prepare proposals, and participate in workshops with diverse stakeholders. The position requires a proactive approach to operational advice and the ability to bridge the gap between research and practical application in the aviation sector. The assistant will also support the drafting of technical documentation and contribute to improvement initiatives, ensuring that operational needs are met effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Operational Assistant include:

• Providing specialized operational support for air traffic management-related activities, including research and innovation projects and rulemaking groups.
• Organizing and participating in workshops with stakeholders, offering operational insights.
• Contributing to the development of aviation transport concepts by capturing stakeholder needs and defining requirements.
• Assisting in validation and simulation exercises, including planning, training preparation, and execution support.
• Drafting and formatting operational and technical documentation, such as operational specifications and guidelines.
• Proposing enhancements to procedures, processes, and technical solutions.
• Supporting less experienced staff in their professional development.
• Carrying out additional tasks aligned with the job's main purpose as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a valid Air Traffic Controller (ATCO) license compliant with Regulation (EU) 2015/340 or an equivalent ICAO-compliant license. They should have completed post-secondary education in a relevant field, meeting European Qualifications Framework (EQF) Level 5 or higher, followed by at least five years of relevant operational experience as a fully rated ATCO. Experience in applying ATC operational procedures, analyzing operational issues, and contributing to the development of ATC procedures is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate the ability to draft clear technical documentation in English and prepare effective presentations and training materials.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes the completion of post-secondary education in a relevant field that meets the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) Level 5 or higher. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of air traffic management and operational procedures.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant operational experience as a fully rated Air Traffic Controller (ATCO), with active air traffic control duties performed within the last five years. This experience is vital for ensuring that the candidate can effectively contribute to the operational aspects of the role and understand the nuances of air traffic management.

Languages:
Proficiency in English at level C1 is mandatory for this position, as the working language of the agency is English. Additionally, the selected candidate must become at least a basic user of French at level A1 before the end of the probation period. This bilingual requirement reflects the multicultural environment of EUROCONTROL and the need for effective communication across diverse teams.

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time role with a duration of five years, subject to renewal or conversion under specific conditions. The selected candidate will be required to complete a nine-month probationary period. The role operates under a hybrid working model, allowing for a combination of onsite presence and teleworking, with specific guidelines on teleworking days. Applications are accepted only from nationals of EUROCONTROL Member States, and the selected candidate may need to provide documentary evidence of meeting educational requirements. The total duration of the appointment, including renewals, may not exceed nine years, and conversion to an undetermined duration appointment is possible under certain conditions.