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Join the European Space Agency as a Payload Manager and contribute to the exciting Next Generation Gravity Mission.
Overview
Salary
No salary declared 😔
Location
Noordwijk, NL
Expires
Expires at anytime
The European Space Agency (ESA) is a world-leading organization dedicated to advancing in space exploration and Earth observation. They are currently seeking a Payload Manager for their Next Generation Gravity Mission (NGGM). This is a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking work in assessing variations in Earth's gravity field.
Role Summary:
- Lead the development of NGGM payloads, particularly the laser tracking instrument and MicroSTAR accelerometer.
- Oversee design, development, verification of payloads.
- Manage the Phase B industrial predevelopment.
- Handle procurement processes under direct ESA contracts.
Role Requirements:
- A master's degree in engineering or a scientific discipline.
- Experience in payload development and managing industrial contracts.
- Capability to lead effectively, solve problems, and manage technical interfaces.
- Experience with laser and/or complex AOCS sensing instruments is preferable.
Application Process Details:
- Apply by October 30, 2025.
- ESA promotes diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from qualified candidates regardless of background.
- Apply on the ESA careers website.
The European Space Agency (ESA) is excited to announce the opening for a Next Generation Gravity Mission (NGGM) Payload Manager at our Earth Observation Programmes directorate in Noordwijk, Netherlands. This role is crucial as ESA continues to advance in space exploration and Earth observation, following the successful GRACE and GOCE missions.
The role: As the NGGM Payload Manager, you will lead the development of the NGGM payloads, specifically the laser tracking instrument (LTI) and the electrostatic MicroSTAR accelerometer (ACC). These instruments are vital for measuring variations in Earth's gravity field with unprecedented accuracy. You will oversee the payloads' design, development, and verification, ensuring alignment with mission requirements and timelines. This includes leading the Phase B industrial predevelopment and managing the procurement processes under direct ESA contracts.
Job requirements: The ideal candidate will have a master's degree in engineering or a scientific discipline, with in-depth experience in payload development and management of industrial contracts. Experience with laser and/or complex AOCS sensing instruments is highly desirable. Strong leadership capabilities, problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage technical interfaces effectively are essential.
Benefits: ESA offers a stimulating work environment with opportunities to participate in pioneering projects with global impact. You will work in an international setting, with access to continuous learning and professional development.
Applications details: Interested candidates should apply by the closing date of October 30, 2025. ESA is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of background.
For more information on the role and to submit your application, please visit the ESA careers website.
