Copernicus Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-1 Next Generation Project Manager

The Sentinel-1 mission comprises four satellites, of which the first and second spacecraft were launched in 2014 and 2016 respectively, while the third and fourth units, currently in storage, are expected to be launched in Q4 2024 and in 2025 respectively.

As part of the global effort to develop next-generation missions beyond those already operational, the Sentinel-1 Next Generation mission is aimed at replacing the Sentinel-2 C&D satellites, providing continuity beyond 2030 and introducing several enhancements. The project has completed its Phase A/B1, and Phase B2/C/D is expected to begin by mid-2025.

You will report to the Copernicus Space Segment Programme Manager within the Directorate of Earth Observation Programmes. You will be responsible for managing the Copernicus Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-1 Next Generation Project protoflight and implementation of the recurrent satellites (Phases B2/C/D/E1).

Your specific responsibilities and duties will include: responsibility for the end-to-end procurement and technical management of the Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-1 Next Generation Projects within the agreed technical specification, cost and schedule; management of the industrial contract(s) relating to your area of responsibility and interfacing with industry for all project matters; representation of the projects, and associated reporting, towards ESA technical authorities, such as the Inspector General, audit teams, frequency coordination teams, the Security Office and the Independent Safety Office, as well as the Mission Advisory Group and ESA delegate bodies, notably DOSTAG; management of the Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-1 Next Generation ESA Project Teams and associated support from the Directorates of Earth Observation Programmes; Technology, Engineering and Quality; Commercialisation, Industry and Competitiveness; and Operations, ensuring that all appropriate information is available to all Project participants such that they can discharge their responsibilities efficiently within the agreed framework.

You will also be responsible for identifying, assessing, managing and reporting the health and safety risks in your area of responsibility.

A master’s degree in a scientific or engineering discipline is required for this post. You should also have proven experience of leading, motivating and developing a team in a project setting; the ability to provide strategic direction to the individuals and teams within the Project and to relate team objectives to the overall, evolving organisational goals and context; the ability to drive performance and foster cooperation within and across teams throughout the organisation; demonstrated excellent leadership, relationship management and communication skills, both oral and written; excellent cognitive, analytical, delegation, planning and organisational skills; the ability to anticipate problems, resolve complex issues and relate situations to their context; the ability to reach solution-oriented, pragmatic and timely decisions of a high standard and with integrity as well as to support others, such as team members, upper management and other stakeholders, in this process.

People management experience is an asset, as is international experience, i.e. outside your home country, as well as experience in diverse functional areas relevant to ESA activities. Diversity, Equity and Inclusiveness 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. 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.