Copernicus LSTM Project 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 provide Europe with a space capability and to foster cooperation among its member states in the field of space exploration and technology. ESA operates in various domains, including Earth observation, human spaceflight, and satellite navigation, and is involved in numerous international collaborations.

Job Overview:
The Copernicus LSTM Project Manager will oversee the Copernicus Land Surface Temperature Monitoring Project, which is part of the Copernicus Space Segment Programme within the Earth Observation Projects Department. This role involves managing the project from its protoflight phase through to the implementation of recurrent satellites, ensuring adherence to technical specifications, budget constraints, and timelines. The Project Manager will report directly to the Copernicus Space Segment Programme Manager and will be responsible for coordinating with various stakeholders, including industry partners and ESA technical authorities, to ensure the project's success. The position requires a strategic mindset to navigate complex project dynamics and to lead a multidisciplinary team effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Manager will be responsible for the end-to-end procurement and technical management of the LSTM project, ensuring compliance with agreed specifications, costs, and schedules. Key duties include managing industrial contracts, interfacing with industry stakeholders, representing the project in front of ESA technical authorities, and overseeing the project team. The role also involves identifying and managing health and safety risks, ensuring that all project participants have access to necessary information, and maintaining effective communication across all levels of the organization. The Project Manager will also be tasked with risk management and ensuring that the project meets its objectives within the defined parameters.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in a scientific or engineering domain, along with at least 10 years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, candidates with a bachelor's degree and an additional four years of relevant experience may be considered. Proven experience in leading and developing project teams, along with the ability to provide strategic direction and foster cooperation, is essential. Strong leadership, relationship management, and communication skills are required, as well as a track record of representing organizational interests to external stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in a scientific or engineering field is mandatory for this position. Candidates with a bachelor's degree may be considered if they have additional relevant experience. The educational background should ideally include coursework or training related to space systems, project management, or related technical fields.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience in project management, particularly in the space sector. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in leading teams, managing complex projects, and navigating the intricacies of space system development. International experience and exposure to diverse functional areas relevant to ESA activities are considered advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English or French is mandatory, as these are the working languages of the Agency. Knowledge of another language from an ESA member state is considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration within the diverse workforce.

Additional Notes:
This position is a four-year appointment, with the possibility of extension to an indefinite term. The role may involve mobility opportunities as part of career development within ESA, typically after five years in the position. 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. Applicants must be eligible to access information subject to European or US export control regulations, and successful candidates will undergo background screening as part of the hiring process.