ALTIUS 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 encompass 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 advance space science and technology.

Job Overview:
The ALTIUS Project Manager will oversee the ALTIUS mission, which is part of ESA's Earth Observation Living Planet Programme. This mission focuses on monitoring the stratospheric ozone distribution and evolution using advanced limb-sounding techniques. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing the implementation activities of the project during Phases D and E1, which includes both space and ground segments. The role requires a comprehensive understanding of technical specifications, cost management, and scheduling to ensure the successful integration, testing, and launch of the ALTIUS satellite. The Project Manager will report directly to the Earth Explorer Missions Programme Manager and will coordinate with various departments to ensure that all project participants have the necessary information to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the ALTIUS Project Manager include:

• End-to-end technical management of the ALTIUS project, ensuring adherence to technical specifications, budget, and timelines.
• Overseeing the completion of instrument- and satellite-level integration and testing activities for both space and ground segments.
• Managing all industrial contracts related to the project and serving as the primary interface with industry stakeholders.
• Representing the project in communications with ESA technical authorities, including the Inspector General and the Independent Safety Office.
• Leading the ALTIUS project teams and coordinating support from various departments, ensuring efficient information flow among all project participants.
• Identifying, assessing, managing, and reporting health and safety risks associated with the project.
• Ensuring that all project activities align with ESA's strategic goals and operational standards.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in a relevant scientific or engineering field, along with a minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience. The ideal candidate should demonstrate strong leadership capabilities, effective relationship management, and excellent communication skills. Additionally, candidates should exhibit the ability to motivate teams, drive performance, and manage challenging situations proactively. Experience in managing individuals or teams in a project setting is essential, as is the ability to organize activities and foster a motivating work environment. Strong problem-solving skills and a results-oriented mindset are also critical for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline is required for this position. This educational background should provide the candidate with a solid foundation in the principles of space system development, project management, and technical specifications relevant to the ALTIUS mission.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience, ideally within the space industry or related fields. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing complex projects, particularly in the context of space system development and operations. Experience in international settings and diverse functional areas relevant to ESA activities is highly desirable.

Languages:
The working languages of ESA are English and French. A good command of one of these languages is mandatory, while knowledge of another language from an ESA member state is considered an asset. This linguistic proficiency is essential for effective communication within the agency and with international partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is a four-year appointment, with the possibility of extension to an indefinite term. Recruitment will be conducted within the advertised grade band (A2-A4), but candidates with less than four years of relevant experience may be considered for a lower grade (A1). Applicants must be eligible to access information and technology subject to European or US export control regulations. The recruitment process may include selection tests, and successful candidates will undergo a background screening in compliance with ESA's security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security procedures. ESA is committed to diversity and inclusiveness in its workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.