Head of the Product Assurance Management Section

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Position Title: Head of the Product Assurance Management Section
Location: Noordwijk
Country: Netherlands
Deadline Date: 2 December 2024 23:59 CET/CEST

Job Details

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, focusing on various aspects of space exploration, satellite technology, and Earth observation. ESA's mission is to provide Europe with a space capability and to foster cooperation among its member states in the field of space science and technology.

Job Overview:
The Head of the Product Assurance Management Section will oversee the management of the Section, its resources, and activities within the Quality and Product Assurance Management Division of the Quality Department. This role involves providing functional support to ESA projects and technology programs in Product Assurance and Safety (PA&S) engineering and management. The successful candidate will be responsible for technological research and development in PA&S management, techniques, methodologies, and tools, as well as standardization and training activities related to PA. The position requires a proactive approach to managing resources and ensuring the successful execution of operational activities within the Section's technical domain.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Head of the Product Assurance Management Section include establishing a multi-year plan of activities, managing workload assessments, and coordinating specialized technical support. The role also involves talent management, ensuring state-of-the-art expertise within the Section, and developing individual talent management plans. The Head will monitor performance, manage staff functional mobility, and ensure a positive working environment. Additionally, the position requires providing expert support to ESA projects, coordinating PA&S requirements, and contributing to the continuous improvement of working procedures and tools. The Head will also be responsible for liaising with technology expert groups and managing health and safety risks within the Section.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong leadership capabilities, excellent communication skills, and the ability to manage individuals or teams effectively. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to drive team performance. Experience in people management and international experience is considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate strong organizational skills and the ability to manage challenging situations constructively.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in engineering, technical sciences, or PA&S engineering is required for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure the candidate has the necessary technical knowledge and skills to fulfill the responsibilities of the role effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a general background and specific experience in the technical domains covered by the role. Candidates should have experience supporting ESA programs and projects, knowledge of industrial landscapes, and the ability to define technology development roadmaps. Experience in driving R&D activities and knowledge of ESA procurement processes is also necessary. Candidates should have a proven track record in managing technical and programmatic requirements in relevant domains.

Languages:
The working languages of the Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these languages is required, while knowledge of another Member State language would be considered an asset. This linguistic proficiency is crucial for effective communication within the diverse environment of ESA.

Additional Notes:
The position is permanent and falls within the grade band A2-A

• However, if the selected candidate has less than four years of relevant professional experience following the completion of their master's degree, the position may be filled at the A1 level. Applicants must be eligible to access technology and hardware subject to European and US export control regulations and 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 successful candidates will undergo basic screening before appointment. ESA is committed to diversity and inclusiveness, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates, particularly women and individuals with disabilities.