Head of the Technology Department

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Position Title: Head of the Technology Department
Location: Noordwijk
Country: Netherlands
Deadline Date: 9 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, including Earth observation, human spaceflight, and satellite navigation. ESA's mission is to provide Europe with a space capability and to foster international cooperation in space exploration.

Job Overview:
The Head of the Technology Department is a pivotal role within ESA, responsible for leading the newly defined Technology Department (TEC-R). This position involves developing and implementing ESA's overall technology strategy, ensuring it aligns with program needs and future missions. The role requires overseeing the full technology development life cycle, from initial research to final implementation, while coordinating technology developments across ESA's internal programs and with European and national technology development initiatives. The Head will also manage the integration of education-related activities into R&D processes, enhancing knowledge-sharing and innovation within the agency. This position demands a strategic thinker who can foster collaboration and enhance efficiency across various teams and stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of the Technology Department will be tasked with ramping up and leading the newly defined department, developing and implementing ESA's technology strategy, and overseeing the full technology development life cycle (TRL1 to TRL9). Responsibilities include coordinating technology developments across ESA's internal programs, leading the preparation of future missions through early-phase studies and feasibility assessments, and developing effective R&D processes in partnership with various stakeholders. The role also involves managing education-related activities within R&D processes, optimizing communication of ESA's technical expertise, and chairing the Senior Future Programme Board to align future program directions with ESA's strategic priorities. Additionally, the Head will be responsible for identifying and managing health and safety risks within their area of responsibility.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree or PhD in engineering. They should have change management experience and proven leadership skills in motivating and developing teams in project or R&D environments. The ability to provide strategic direction and relate team objectives to organizational goals is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate excellent leadership, relationship management, and communication skills, both oral and written. A strong track record of representing the agency's interests externally, along with cognitive, analytical, planning, and organizational skills, is required. The ability to anticipate problems, resolve complex issues, and make timely decisions is crucial, as is the ability to influence internal stakeholders and engage with a wide range of stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A master's degree or PhD in engineering is required for this position. This educational background is essential to understand the complex technological principles and processes involved in space systems and their development.

Experience:
Candidates should have significant experience in managing technology development through all technology readiness levels (TRL1–9). Experience in conducting early-phase mission studies and feasibility assessments is also necessary. People management experience and international experience outside of the home country are considered assets, as well as experience in diverse functional areas relevant to ESA activities.

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.

Additional Notes:
This position is a permanent contract and is classified under grade band A

• ESA is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusiveness, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates, including women and individuals with disabilities. The agency values diversity and seeks to accommodate individuals with disabilities in the workplace. Applicants must be eligible to access technology subject to European and US export control regulations. The recruitment process may include selection tests, and successful candidates will undergo basic screening before appointment. Note that ESA is transitioning to a Matrix setup, which may lead to organizational changes affecting this position.