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Join the European Space Agency's exciting WIVERN Project as a Payload Manager and be part of a mission that changes our understanding of atmospheric phenomena.
Overview
Salary
No salary declared 😔
Location
Noordwijk, NL
Expires
Expires at anytime
The European Space Agency (ESA), an international organization dedicated to the exploration of space, offers the unique opportunity to contribute to the Earth Explorer Missions Programme, specifically the WIVERN Project. This exciting endeavor aims to revolutionize our understanding of atmospheric phenomena and ocean surface currents by furnishing the first global 3D wind field observations.
As the WIVERN Payload Manager, you would:
- Oversee development of a 94 GHz Doppler Radar, the mission's payload
- Manage payload design, development, and verification
- Lead industrial technology predevelopment procurement related to the payload
- Ensure payload operability and manage development risks
Requirements for this role include:
- A master’s degree in a relevant engineering discipline with 10+ years of experience or a bachelor’s degree with 14+ years of experience
- Experience in managing technical interfaces, industrial procurement, and microwave radar instruments
- Strong leadership and problem-solving skills and the ability to manage a team
To apply, submit your application by May 26, 2026. ESA is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusivity. For additional details, refer to the ESA Core Behavioural Competencies guidebook.
The European Space Agency (ESA) is excited to announce an opening for the position of WIVERN Payload Manager at our Earth Observation Programmes Directorate, located at ESTEC in Noordwijk, Netherlands. This role is crucial for the WIVERN Project, part of the Earth Explorer Missions Programme, which aims to deliver the first global observations of the three-dimensional wind field. The mission will significantly enhance our understanding of atmospheric phenomena, sea ice, snow, and ocean surface currents.
The Role: As the WIVERN Payload Manager, you will oversee the development of the WIVERN payload, specifically the conically scanning 94 GHz Doppler Radar. Your responsibilities will include managing the payload design, development, and verification. You will lead the payload-related Phase B industrial technology predevelopment procurement to achieve TRL6 by the satellite PDR milestone. Additionally, you will be involved in preparing, evaluating, and negotiating the procurement of the WIVERN payload and satellite for various project phases. Ensuring the operability of the payload in line with satellite operations and managing payload development risks are also key aspects of this role.
Job Requirements: Candidates should possess a master’s degree in a relevant engineering discipline with at least 10 years of relevant professional experience, or a bachelor’s degree with an additional four years of experience. Experience in managing technical interfaces, industrial procurement, and microwave radar instruments is essential. Strong leadership capabilities, problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage a team effectively are also required.
Benefits: ESA offers a stimulating work environment with a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusiveness. We provide support for individuals with disabilities and ensure an inclusive working atmosphere.
Applications Details: Interested candidates should apply by the closing date of May 26, 2026. ESA is an equal opportunity employer, welcoming applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of background. For further details, please refer to the ESA Core Behavioural Competencies guidebook.
