Head of the Earth Observation Projects Department

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 telecommunications, and collaborates with numerous international partners to achieve its objectives.

Job Overview:
The Head of the Earth Observation Projects Department is a pivotal role within the Earth Observation Programmes Directorate at ESA. This position involves direct reporting to the Director of Earth Observation Programmes and encompasses the overall system definition and management of approved ESA Earth observation programmes, which include critical missions such as Earth Explorer, Scout, and Copernicus. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the entire lifecycle of these projects, from conception through to launch and in-orbit verification. This role requires a strategic mindset to ensure that mission requirements are met within the established budget and timeline, while also fostering collaboration across various teams and departments within ESA. The Head will also play a crucial role in interfacing with industry partners and member states, ensuring that the agency's industrial policies are effectively implemented and that the department's long-term strategic vision is communicated clearly.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Head of the Earth Observation Projects Department include leading teams in the design and implementation of space segments for approved Earth observation missions, directing and monitoring project progress, and ensuring the consolidation of the programmatic framework for future missions. The role also involves interfacing with industry and member states on technical and programmatic issues, managing departmental staff, and fostering a collaborative environment across project teams. Additionally, the Head will be responsible for identifying and managing health and safety risks, ensuring compliance with ESA's policies, and maintaining close cooperation with other departments within the agency. The position requires effective communication and leadership skills to motivate and develop team members, as well as the ability to handle sensitive situations and provide constructive feedback.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in engineering or physics, along with at least 15 years of relevant professional experience. The ideal candidate should have a proven track record in managing complex space systems and interacting with the European space industry at high levels, including contract negotiations. Strong leadership skills, the ability to drive performance, and experience in managing teams are essential. Candidates should also demonstrate excellent relationship management and communication skills, both oral and written, as well as strong analytical and organizational abilities.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in engineering or physics is required for this position. This educational background is essential to understand the technical complexities involved in managing Earth observation projects and to provide the necessary strategic direction to teams.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 15 years of relevant professional experience, with a strong emphasis on managing complex space systems and leading teams. Experience in diverse functional areas relevant to ESA activities is highly desirable, as is international experience, particularly outside the candidate's home country. Previous experience in managing managers and large entities encompassing several teams is also required.

Languages:
The working languages of ESA are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these languages is mandatory, while knowledge of another Member State language would be considered an asset. This linguistic capability is crucial for effective communication within the agency and with external partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is a four-year appointment, which may be extended to an indefinite duration. The role is based in Noordwijk, Netherlands, and may involve mobility opportunities as part of career evolution at ESA. The agency is committed to diversity, equity, 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 and sanctions regulations and must be able to acquire security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security-clearance" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security clearance by their national security administrations. The recruitment process may include selection tests and background screening.