Head of the Flight Software Section

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Position Title: Head of the Flight Software Section
Location: Noordwijk
Country: Netherlands
Deadline Date: 26 November 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 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.

Job Overview:
The Head of the Flight Software Section is a pivotal role within the Avionics and EEE Division of the Electrical Department at ESA. This position entails overseeing the management of the Flight Software Section, which is responsible for providing comprehensive support to all ESA projects in the realm of flight software and functional engineering. The role requires a strategic approach to managing resources and activities, ensuring that the Section meets its operational objectives effectively. The Head will be accountable for the outcomes of the Section's technical domain, which includes engineering on-board software, independent verification and validation of critical software, and the development of software-related engineering standards. The position also involves fostering collaboration with other divisions and ensuring the continuous improvement of working procedures and methodologies within the Section.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Head of the Flight Software Section include: 1. Workload Assessment and Assignment: Establishing a multi-year plan of activities, setting annual objectives, and managing day-to-day technical support within the Section. 2. Talent Management: Maintaining expertise in the Section, driving the development of personnel, and integrating newcomers into the team. 3. Support Management: Monitoring performance at individual and team levels and ensuring the achievement of Section objectives. 4. Expertise Management: Facilitating teamwork, improving working procedures, and representing the Agency in relevant areas of expertise. 5. R&D/Technology Management: Defining and implementing contributions to ESA technology programs and coordinating requirements with other areas. 6. Laboratory Management: Taking technical responsibility for the flight software laboratory. 7. General Leadership: Ensuring a motivating work environment and effective communication of ESA values. 8. Interface Management: Supporting system engineers in the design and verification of subsystems. 9. Programme Support: Providing expert consultancy to ESA projects and managing health and safety risks in the area of responsibility.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in the technical domains relevant to the position, including experience in supporting ESA programs and knowledge of their technical requirements. Additionally, candidates should have experience in driving R&D activities, knowledge of ESA technology programs, and familiarity with procurement processes and contract management. Resource management experience and knowledge of Space Engineering Standards are also essential. Strong leadership capabilities, problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage challenging situations proactively are crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A master’s degree in computer science is required for this position. This educational background provides the necessary foundation for understanding complex software systems and engineering principles relevant to flight software development.

Experience:
The position requires solid experience in the technical domains of the Section, particularly in defining and specifying technology R&D activities. Candidates should have substantial experience in design and technology development, as well as the potential to manage individuals or teams in a project or R&D setting. Experience in diverse functional areas relevant to ESA activities is also beneficial.

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 proficiency is essential for effective communication within the agency and with external partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is a permanent contract within the grade band A2-A4. 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.