Mission Predevelopment Coordinator
JOB DETAIL
Vacancy in the Directorate of Science.
ESA is an equal opportunity employer, committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment. We therefore welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics. Applications from women are encouraged.
This post is classified A2–A4 on the Coordinated Organisations’ salary scale.
Location
ESTEC, Noordwijk, Netherlands
Description
The Future Missions Department (SCI-F) is responsible for managing mission preparation activities and small missions within the Directorate of Science. This includes predevelopment efforts to ensure the readiness of the mission candidates at the time of adoption, running in parallel and closely aligned with the relevant system studies.
The Mission Predevelopment Coordinator in the Technology Preparation Section (SCI-FT) is responsible for identifying and coordinating the required implementation of the predevelopment activities.
Duties
Reporting to the Head of SCI-FT, you will be the focal point for the predevelopments of the NewAthena mission while also contributing to the preparation of other missions.
Your responsibilities will centre primarily around the predevelopments of the NewAthena mission, including X-ray optics, as well as predevelopments of other mission candidates within the Science Programme, including preparing development plans and monitoring implementation of the activities, as well as overseeing the evolution of the required tools.
Your tasks will include:
- leading the coordination efforts for the predevelopments of the NewAthena X-ray optics and related facilities;
- leading the coordination of other predevelopment initiatives required for NewAthena and other future ESA science missions as defined in the Voyage 2050 programme;
- leading the Technological Readiness Assessments throughout the pre-adoption phases;
- contributing to the formulation of a long-term strategic approach to predevelopments preparing for potential future science missions;
- specifying and implementing specific development activities;
- assisting in coordinating developments and planning both within ESA and with external parties;
- providing support for the assessment and preparation of future mission candidates;
- participating in reviews and working groups, providing support for mission assessment and implementation;
- continuously monitoring developments and technology trends relevant to future science missions.
Technical competencies
Behavioural competencies
Result Orientation
Planning and Organisation
Fostering Cooperation
Relationship Management
Continuous Improvement
Forward Thinking
Education
A master’s degree in engineering or applied physics is required.
Additional requirements
You should also have the following qualifications and abilities:
- Proficiency in X-ray optics, cryogenic equipment, precision metrology, sensors and advanced optics;
- Previous experience with test and assembly, integration and testing (AIT) facilities;
- Knowledge of instrumentation and space systems;
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to effectively communicate complex technical concepts clearly and convincingly;
- Ability to proactively engage and coordinate with a diverse range of internal technical experts and to collaborate with external partners, including scientific institutes and industry, while considering programmatic constraints;
- Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to anticipate issues and to propose solutions that align with overall goals;
- Flexibility in handling day-to-day operational challenges, combined with demonstrated planning and organisational skills;
- A high level of motivation and dedication, coupled with a sense of ownership and a proactive approach.
Other information
For behavioural competencies expected from ESA staff in general, please refer to the ESA Competency Framework.
For further information please visit: Professionals, What we offer and FAQ
The working languages of the Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these is required. Knowledge of another Member State language would be an asset.
The Agency may require applicants to undergo selection tests.
At the Agency we value diversity and we welcome people with disabilities. Whenever possible, we seek to accommodate individuals with disabilities by providing the necessary support at the workplace. The Human Resources Department can also provide assistance during the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss this further please contact us email [email protected].
Please note that applications are only considered from nationals of one of the following States: Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and Canada, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovakia and Slovenia.
According to the ESA Convention, the recruitment of staff must take into account an adequate distribution of posts among nationals of the ESA Member States*. When short-listing for an interview, priority will first be given to internal candidates and secondly to external candidates from under-represented Member States*.
In accordance with the European Space Agency’s security procedures and as part of the selection process, successful candidates will be required to undergo basic screening before appointment conducted by an external background screening service.
In principle, recruitment will be within the advertised grade band (A2-A4). However, if the selected candidate has less than four years of relevant professional experience following the completion of the master’s degree, the position may be filled at A1 level.
*Member States, Associate Members or Cooperating States.
